The Super Eagles of Nigeria kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought victory, securing all three points against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania. The match, played at the Fes Stadium in Morocco on December 24, 2025, ended 2-1 in favor of the three-time African champions.
A Tense First Half Breakthrough
The Nigerian side began the encounter brightly, with striker Adams Akor coming close to an early lead. His powerful effort in the 10th minute rattled the crossbar, much to the relief of the Tanzanian supporters. The Taifa Stars, however, grew into the game and began to dominate possession in the midfield for a period, testing the Nigerian defense marshaled by Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Zaidu Sanusi.
The game turned into a back-and-forth affair until the 35th minute. A promising Nigerian attack fizzled out after Victor Osimhen failed to convert a golden opportunity. However, the Super Eagles were not to be denied for long. Just a minute later, Tanzania was punished for losing possession in midfield. The loose ball found Alex Iwobi on the right flank, who delivered a precise cross into the box. Central defender Semi Ajayi rose highest to powerfully head home the opening goal in the 36th minute, sending the Nigerian fans into raptures.
Second-Half Drama Seals the Win
The second half started with controversy. Nigeria thought they had doubled their lead shortly after the restart, but a goal from Victor Osimhen was correctly ruled out for offside following a VAR review. The Taifa Stars capitalized on this let-off and found their equalizer in the 50th minute. M. Mombwa pounced on a defensive error and a loose ball to slot home, making the score 1-1.
Nigeria's response was swift and spectacular. Just two minutes after conceding, the Super Eagles retook the lead. Former African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, received the ball outside the box and unleashed a stunning rifle shot into the net in the 52nd minute. The Atalanta forward's moment of quality ultimately proved to be the match-winner.
Managerial Changes and Closing Moments
Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, made strategic substitutions to see out the game. He introduced Moses Simon for Samuel Chukwueze and brought on Dele Bashiru for Adams Akor. In the 85th minute, Paul Onuachu replaced the talismanic Victor Osimhen, but the scoreline remained unchanged. The Nigerian defense held firm in the closing stages to ensure the 2-1 victory and a perfect start to their AFCON 2025 journey.
This win gives Nigeria a crucial three points in Group C, putting them in a strong early position as they aim to progress to the knockout stages of the tournament. The team will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures.
