Nigeria’s Super Eagles defeated Tanzania 3-1 in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
The result marked a recovery for the Super Eagles after their September loss to Guinea-Bissau. Meanwhile, the victory moved Nigeria to six points in Group L. Guinea-Bissau led the group with seven points.
Alhassan Yusuf opened the scoring in the second minute. Ademola Lookman provided the assist after a swift move involving Akor Adams. Yusuf finished calmly to give the hosts an early advantage.
Tanzania equalised in the 32nd minute. Alphonce Msanga converted a pass from Novatus Miroshi to level the score at 1-1. Both teams created further chances before the break but failed to add to the tally.
Eric Chelle, the Nigeria coach, made two substitutions at half-time. He introduced Tolu Arokodare for Tochukwu Nnadi and Moses Usor for Alhassan Yusuf.
The changes quickly altered the contest. In the 52nd minute, Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead. Wilfred Ndidi, the captain, delivered a low cross that Arokodare flicked home.
Eight minutes later, Arokodare scored again. Usor created the chance with a cross, and Arokodare finished past the goalkeeper to make it 3-1.
Tanzania introduced several substitutes, including a triple change in the 66th minute, in an attempt to respond. Nigeria maintained control and managed the game. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru replaced Akor Adams in the 78th minute, while Semi Ajayi came on for Ola Aina in stoppage time.
Arokodare nearly completed a hat-trick late on but saw his effort denied. Nigeria held firm to secure the three points.
The Super Eagles next travel to Tanzania for the return fixture on Tuesday. Tanzania have already secured qualification for the 2027 tournament as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda.
