AFCON 2025: Ajayi & Lookman On Target as Super Eagles Beat Tanzania 2–1

The Super Eagles of Nigeria opened their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania in their Group C opener at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco.  Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman were on target to secure all three points for Nigeria.

After dominating early proceedings, Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 36th minute when Semi Ajayi powered home a header from an Alex Iwobi corner, giving the Eagles the lead heading into halftime.

Tanzania responded shortly after the break, with Charles M’Mombwa equalising on 50 minutes following a defensive lapse. But Nigeria answered instantly, as Ademola Lookman restored the lead in the 52nd minute with a clinical strike from outside the box a goal that ultimately proved decisive.

The Super Eagles saw some opportunities come and go, including a Victor Osimhen goal ruled out for offside, but they held on to start their AFCON campaign positively.

Editorial

There are victories that soothe expectations and victories that assert intent. Nigeria’s 2–1 win over Tanzania belongs to the latter category not simply because it yielded the desired three points, but because of the psychological framing it provides at the outset of AFCON 2025.

This was not a polished demolition but a competitive assertion rooted in purposeful control and the ability to respond to setbacks. When Semi Ajayi rose highest to head in Nigeria’s opener, it encapsulated more than finishing technique — it signalled composure against an organised Tanzanian defence. Later, when Charles M’Mombwa’s equaliser threatened to destabilise the Eagles, the speed with which Ademola Lookman restored the lead suggested a team capable of mental recalibration under pressure.

Nigeria entered this tournament with unavoidable baggage the lingering disappointment of failing to secure a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the imperative to redefine their competitive narrative on African soil. Coach Éric Chelle’s side did not overwhelm indeed, opportunities were squandered, and pockets of vulnerability surfaced but what they did demonstrate was a capacity to manage phases of the game and respond with urgency when it mattered most.

The victory in Fès should not be romanticised. It was not flawless. Yet in a tournament where tight margins often determine progression, starting with a hard-fought win is a strategic advantage. It grants Nigeria not just points, but an early psychological foothold in a group that will only grow in complexity. In the crucible of continental competition, resilience evidenced here is as vital as creativity.

Did You Know?

1. Ajayi’s Impact Semi Ajayi’s goal in this match came from a corner delivered by Alex Iwobi, highlighting the importance of set-piece proficiency for Nigeria at AFCON 2025.
2. Lookman’s Quick Response Ademola Lookman scored just two minutes after Tanzania’s equaliser, underlining Nigeria’s ability to respond swiftly to adversity.
3. Osimhen Near Miss Victor Osimhen had a goal ruled out for offside immediately before Tanzania’s equaliser a moment that could have made it 2–0 early in the second half.
4. Tanzania’s Fight Tanzania’s goal by Charles M’Mombwa briefly shifted momentum, showcasing the competitive spirit that makes AFCON group stages unpredictable.
5. Nigeria Tops Group C (Temporarily) With this win, Nigeria began the tournament strongly and temporarily sits at the top of Group C pending results from the Tunisia vs Uganda match.