The journey for a fourth star began with grit, not just glory. Nigeria’s Super Eagles opened their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania, but the three-time champions were forced to navigate moments of tension on their way to three crucial points in Morocco.
True to pre-match expectations, Nigeria dominated the early exchanges, controlling possession and creating the first meaningful chances. The breakthrough came from an unlikely source. After a recycled corner, Alex Iwobi delivered a precise cross into the box, where defender Semi Ajayi rose highest to power a header home, giving the Eagles a deserved lead.
However, the anticipated procession was interrupted. Against the run of play, Tanzania found a route back into the game, exploiting a lapse in the Nigerian defense. Charles M’Mombwa found himself in acres of space inside the penalty area and made no mistake, slotting home a calm finish to stun the favorites and level the score.
The response from the Super Eagles was swift and decisive. Just two minutes later, the ever-dangerous Ademola Lookman restored order. Collecting the ball in a dangerous area, the Atalanta forward took a few deft touches to create an opening before curling a beautiful left-footed finish past the Tanzanian goalkeeper. It was a moment of individual quality that ultimately separated the two sides.
While the victory marks a successful, if nervy, start to the tournament, the performance highlighted areas for improvement. The momentary defensive disorganization that allowed Tanzania's equalizer will be a key focus for coach José Peseiro as his team prepares for sterner tests ahead.
Nonetheless, the character shown to immediately reclaim the lead and secure the win provides a solid foundation as Nigeria sets its sights on navigating a challenging Group D and progressing deep into the competition.
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