By Amofokhai Williams
Nigeria’s Super Eagles kicked off their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in a thrilling Group C encounter at the Fes Sports Complex.
Defender Semi Ajayi delivered a standout performance, scoring the opener with a powerful header and earning the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award for his commanding display at the back.
The three-time champions, still stinging from their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, faced a resilient Tanzanian side that threatened to spoil their start.
Nigeria dominated possession early but struggled to break down a disciplined defense until the 36th minute, when Alex Iwobi’s precise cross found Ajayi unmarked in the box.
The Hull City center-back rose highest to thunder a header past the goalkeeper, giving the Super Eagles a deserved lead.
Tanzania, seeking their first-ever AFCON win, responded emphatically after the break. Just five minutes into the second half, Charles M’Mombwa capitalized on a defensive lapse to equalize, injecting life into the contest and silencing the Nigerian supporters in the stands.
However, the Super Eagles regained control swiftly. In the 52nd minute, Ademola Lookman restored the lead with a clinical finish from outside the area, assisted by Iwobi’s clever pass.
The Atalanta forward’s strike proved decisive, as Nigeria held firm despite late pressure from the Taifa Stars.
Victor Osimhen had a frustrating evening up front, seeing one effort cleared off the line and another disallowed for offside, but the team’s depth in attack, bolstered by Lookman and Iwobi’s two assists ultimately secured the three points.
Ajayi’s heroic defending in the latter stages, coupled with his goal, rightfully earned him the individual accolade from tournament organizers CAF.
The win places Nigeria atop Group C with three points, ahead of their next clash against Tunisia on December 27.
Tanzania, despite the defeat, showed promising signs under coach Miguel Gamondi and will look to build on their spirited performance when they face Uganda.
