Nigeria kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign with a determined 2–1 victory against Tanzania in their Group C opener at the Fez Stadium in Morocco. The Super Eagles dominated large spells of the game and earned a crucial three points to start their tournament journey on a high.
Defender Semi Ajayi set the tone for Nigeria, rising highest to head home from an Alex Iwobi corner and give the Eagles the lead just before halftime.
After the break, Tanzania hit back through Charles M’Mombwa, who capitalised on a loose ball to level the score in the early second half, briefly swinging momentum in the underdogs’ favour.
However, Nigeria responded almost instantly. Ademola Lookman delivered the decisive blow with a powerful left-footed finish, restoring the Eagles’ lead and ultimately sealing the victory. His strike proved to be the match-winner as Nigeria held on despite late pressure from the Taifa Stars.
The result gives the three-time African champions a promising start in Group C as they look ahead to tougher tests later in the competition.
