Nigeria vs Tanzania: Super Eagles overcome Taifa Stars, off-colour Osimhen in AFCON 2025 opener

The Super Eagles kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025) campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Tanzania on Tuesday night in Fez. Despite the biting cold, Nigeria asserted themselves early and rarely looked troubled, with Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman finding the net to secure the three points. 

From the first whistle, Eric Chelle’s side controlled possession, exploiting the wings through Samuel Chukwueze, Simon Moses, and Lookman, while the 4-4-2 diamond allowed the midfield to dictate the pace.

Though the scoreline reflects a comfortable victory, the match offered glimpses of missed opportunities. Victor Osimhen had a goal ruled out for offside and missed several chances throughout the game, leaving Nigeria’s attack slightly wasteful at key moments. 

Super Eagles’ over-reliance on Osimhen could pose problems

Osimhen was central to Nigeria’s attacking play against Tanzania, but his involvement also exposed a potential vulnerability.

The forward, on the pitch for 86 minutes, had seven shots with three on target, including a disallowed goal, yet at times struggled to link effectively with his teammates. The Super Eagles’ build-up often funneled through the 2023 CAF POTY, leaving gaps when he was out of position and reducing unpredictability in the final third.

While his reputation and presence demand constant attention from defenders, creating space for players like Chukwueze, Lookman, and Moses, Nigeria must ensure they are not overly dependent on the Galatasaray striker. 

The West Africans now sits atop the group after the opening day, but attention quickly turns to the next match against Tunisia on December 27 in Fez.