Nigeria’s Super Eagles on Friday returned to winning ways with an impressive 3-1 victory over Tanzania in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign.
The encounter, played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, saw the three-time African champions recover from their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau with a convincing performance against the Taifa Stars.
Alhassan Yusuf opened the scoring for Nigeria in the second minute after connecting with a pass from Ademola Lookman to give the hosts an early advantage.
However, Tanzania fought back and restored parity in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, ensuring both teams went into the half-time break level at 1-1.
Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle introduced Tolu Arokodare at the beginning of the second half, and the substitution quickly paid off.
Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute after receiving an assist from captain Wilfred Ndidi.
The striker subsequently completed his brace in the second half to extend Nigeria’s advantage to 3-1 and seal an important victory for the Super Eagles.
The result provides a significant boost to Nigeria’s qualification campaign after the setback against Guinea-Bissau, which had increased pressure on Chelle and his players.
According to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the Super Eagles are targeting maximum points from their two encounters against Tanzania to strengthen their position in Group L.
Nigeria will now travel to Zanzibar for the return fixture against Tanzania on Tuesday, November 17, as they seek another victory to consolidate their qualification ambitions.
Tanzania, who have already secured a place at the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda, will host the return encounter at the Amaan Stadium.
The victory gives Nigeria renewed confidence as the race for qualification continues.
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