Players of Nigeria celebrating their opener
The Super Eagles of Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group C campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over a spirited Tanzania side on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, in Fez, Morocco.
Nigeria started the contest with authority, dominating possession and pushing Tanzania back with quick attacks down the flanks. Victor Osimhen was a constant menace, twice getting in behind the defense, but the Taifa Stars goalkeeper, Zuberi Foba produced a series of impressive saves to keep the underdogs in the game.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 37th minute when Semi Ajayi rose highest to power a header past Foba after a precise cross from Alex Iwobi, giving Nigeria a deserved lead at halftime.
Tanzania returned from the break with renewed belief and were rewarded almost immediately. In the 50th minute, Novatus Miroshi’s perfectly weighted pass caught Nigeria’s backline off guard, allowing Charles M’Mombwa to score the equalizer.
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The joy for the East Africans was short-lived. Just two minutes later, Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s lead with a moment of individual brilliance, dancing past defenders at the edge of the box before unleashing a fierce strike into the top corner.
Despite lacking star power in attack, Tanzania showed courage and continued to push for another equalizer, creating half-chances late on but failed to test Nwabali.
Nigeria managed the closing stages professionally to secure all three points. The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to a decisive clash against Tunisia on Saturday, December 27, 2025, while Tanzania prepare for a crucial East African derby against Uganda.
FKA/JE
Watch highlights of the bout between Freezy Macbones and Jonathan Tetteh below:
