Nigeria AFCON victory sealed as Ademola Lookman’s stunning strike earns Super Eagles a 2–1 win over Tanzania in Morocco

Nigeria’s Super Eagles, led by head coach Éric Chelle, opened their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania on Tuesday in Morocco.

Also read: Osimhen rejects claims Super Eagles rely solely on him

The Group C win eased pressure following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and extended the Super Eagles’ unbeaten run against Tanzania to nine matches.

Nigeria started with authority and nearly scored early when Akor Adams forced goalkeeper Zuberi Foba into a sharp save.

Moments later, the Sevilla forward struck the crossbar with a powerful header from close range.

Tanzania briefly threatened when Simon Msuva tested Stanley Nwabali, but Nigeria remained dominant.

Victor Osimhen thought he had scored after rounding Foba, only for Bakari Mwamnyeto to clear off the line.

Nigeria finally broke through in the 36th minute.

From an Alex Iwobi corner, Semi Ajayi guided a precise header into the far corner to give Nigeria the lead.

Before half-time, Foba produced a fine double save to deny Wilfred Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze, keeping Tanzania in the contest.

Those saves proved crucial as Tanzania equalised five minutes after the restart.

Novatus Miroshi crossed dangerously and Charles M’Mombwa volleyed home from close range.

Nigeria responded immediately.

Two minutes later, Ademola Lookman created space outside the area and curled a superb left-footed strike into the far corner.

The goal restored Nigeria’s lead and shifted momentum decisively.

Chelle’s side pushed for a third, with Lookman denied by a deflection and Osimhen repeatedly testing the defence.

Iwobi fired narrowly over, while Foba again blocked Osimhen’s low drive.

Tanzania remained dangerous late on.

Ibrahim Hamad missed a clear chance from close range after a corner, a moment that proved costly.

Nigeria managed the closing stages with composure to secure three points and a confident start to the tournament.

Also read: Osimhen rejects claims Super Eagles rely solely on him

The Super Eagles will face Tunisia on Saturday, while Tanzania were left encouraged by a spirited display despite defeat.