Nigeria Hold Their Nerve to Edge Tanzania in Dramatic Afcon Opener
Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign was set in motion with a tense but encouraging 2-1 win over Tanzania, a match that had just about everything — heavy rain, missed chances, a sudden scare, and a moment of brilliance that ultimately made the difference. Played in Fes under soaking conditions, this Group C opener was meant to be a statement from last tournament’s runners-up, and while the victory was secured, it did not come without anxiety.
From the opening minutes, Nigeria were seen taking control of the game. Possession was dominated, territory was claimed, and Tanzania were pushed deep into their own half. Chances were created almost at will, yet the finishing touch refused to arrive. Victor Osimhen came agonisingly close midway through the first half after rounding the goalkeeper, only for his effort to be cleared off the line. It was one of those moments that hinted Nigeria could be punished if they failed to turn pressure into goals.
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That breakthrough eventually arrived in the 36th minute. Alex Iwobi delivered a teasing cross into the box, and Semi Ajayi rose confidently to guide a precise header into the net. At that point, the goal felt overdue, and Nigeria appeared ready to pull away.
Instead, the match took an unexpected turn just after the break. Tanzania, who had barely threatened before, found an equaliser through Charles M’Mombwa. He timed his run perfectly, beat the offside trap, and volleyed home from a looping cross, catching Nigeria off guard and briefly silencing their momentum.
The response, however, was immediate and emphatic. Just two minutes later, Ademola Lookman produced a moment of real quality. After twisting away from his marker, he unleashed a stunning long-range strike that flew into the far corner. It was the kind of goal that changes the mood instantly, and once again Nigeria were back in control.
Even then, the game refused to settle. Tanzania pushed forward late on, sensing an opportunity, and came heartbreakingly close to another equaliser. A stretching effort narrowly missed an empty net, and a wild shot from close range sailed over the bar. Nigeria, though, held firm and saw out the closing minutes.
In the end, it was a win built on dominance, resilience, and one flash of brilliance when it mattered most. For Nigeria, the result delivers a positive start and valuable three points, even if the performance served as a reminder that efficiency will need to improve as the tournament progresses. For Tanzania, the narrow defeat showed spirit and belief, but once again they were left chasing an opening-game result that slipped just beyond reach.
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