Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania in a rain-soaked Group C clash in Fes on Tuesday, 23 December 2025. A moment of brilliance from Ademola Lookman proved decisive for the Super Eagles, who survived a late scare to claim three points.
A Tense Start for the Favourites
The match, played under heavy rain, saw Nigeria dominate possession and create the clearer chances from the outset. Victor Osimhen came agonisingly close early on, rounding Tanzania goalkeeper Zuberi Foba only to see his effort cleared off the line. The pressure finally told after 36 minutes when Semi Ajayi rose to meet an Alex Iwobi cross, guiding a precise header into the net to give Nigeria a deserved lead.
Despite their control, Nigeria were punished for failing to extend their advantage. Five minutes into the second half, Tanzania's Charles M'Mombwa beat the offside trap to latch onto a high cross from Novatus Miroshi and finished expertly on the volley, sending the east African side's supporters into raptures.
Lookman's Instant Response
The Tanzanian joy was spectacularly short-lived. Just two minutes after the equaliser, Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria's lead with a stunning individual effort. The forward twisted away from his marker 25 yards from goal and unleashed a powerful shot that arrowed into the far corner, leaving Foba with no chance.
Nigeria, the tournament runners-up from 2023, were forced to endure a nervy finale as Tanzania rallied in search of a second equaliser. Kelvin John was inches away from tapping into an empty net late on, and Ibrahim Hamad blazed a golden opportunity over the bar from close range, allowing Nigeria to hold on for a vital win.
Implications for Group C
The result means Tanzania's winless run at the Africa Cup of Nations extends to 10 matches, comprising three draws and seven defeats. While they showed resilience, they will rue their missed chances to snatch a point. For Nigeria, the victory provides a positive, if unconvincing, start to their quest for a fourth continental title.
In the other Group C fixture played later on Tuesday, Tunisia faced Uganda in Rabat. Nigeria will now look to build momentum from this opening victory as the tournament progresses.
