Nigeria began their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 win against Tanzania on Tuesday evening, securing all three points in their Group C opener.
The Super Eagles took the lead in the 36th minute when Semi Ajayi rose highest to convert a well-delivered assist from Alex Iwobi, giving Nigeria control going into halftime.
Tanzania responded strongly after the break. Their persistence paid off in the 50th minute as Charles M’Mombwa found the net to level the score, briefly shifting momentum in favour of the East Africans.
Moments earlier, Nigeria had a goal ruled out after VAR confirmed Victor Osimhen was offside.
Nigeria, however, wasted no time in restoring their advantage.
Just two minutes after conceding, Ademola Lookman struck decisively in the 52nd minute, finishing another Iwobi assist to make it 2–1.
The Atalanta forward’s composure proved to be the difference on the night.
The remainder of the match saw tactical substitutions and disciplined defending from Nigeria, who held firm despite late pressure from Tanzania.
Lookman received a yellow card in the second half, but his goal ultimately sealed the win.
The result places Nigeria in a strong position early in the group stage as they look to build momentum in the tournament, while Tanzania will aim to bounce back in their next fixture.
