Super Eagles begin AFCON 2025 Group C campaign against Tanzania on December 23, aiming to build on past success and secure a fourth continental title

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will launch their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign on Tuesday, facing Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in the Group C opener at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, Morocco.

Also read: Davido Sparks Buzz With Bold Super Eagles AFCON Bet

The three-time champions aim to build on their runner-up finish in the 2023 edition while overcoming recent setbacks in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Nigeria enter the match as favourites against a Tanzanian side that has never progressed beyond the group stage in their four AFCON appearances.

Historically, Nigeria holds a strong record against Tanzania. Across seven meetings, the Super Eagles have won four matches and drawn three without defeat, scoring 11 goals and conceding three.

In their sole AFCON encounter in 1980, Nigeria triumphed 3–1 in the opening Group A match, with goals from Lawal, Onyedika, and Odegbami.

Despite their pedigree, Nigeria face challenges with key defenders unavailable. Ola Aina is injured, while former captain William Troost-Ekong has retired, placing added pressure on central defenders Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi.

Interim coach Eric Chelle will rely on a potent attacking line-up led by Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman. The likely starting XI includes:

• Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
• Defenders: Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey
• Wing-backs: Bright Osayi-Samuel, Zaidu Sanusi
• Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (captain), Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi
• Forwards: Simon Moses, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen

Nigeria also boasts strong bench options, including Ryan Alebiosu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, Raphael Onyedika, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Samuel Chukwueze, and Paul Onuachu.

Alos read: Davido Sparks Buzz With Bold Super Eagles AFCON Bet

The match kicks off at 18:30 WAT (6:30 PM) at the Complexe Sportif de Fès. Fans can watch live and free-to-air on Channel 4 (UK), with additional streaming available via SuperSport and beIN Sports.