Emmanuel Obi
The Super Eagles of Nigeria kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-1 win over Tanzania in Fes, Morocco. Despite dominating possession and chances, Nigeria had to dig deep to secure the victory .
Nigeria began their quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania in wet conditions in Fes.
The Super Eagles took the lead in the 36th minute when defender Semi Ajayi glanced home a header from Alex Iwobi’s inviting right-wing cross.
Nigeria largely controlled proceedings in the first half and went close to doubling their advantage before the break, only for Samuel Chukwueze’s deflected effort to be tipped over the bar by Tanzania goalkeeper Zuberi Foba.
Ademola Lookman scored the winning goal in the 53rd minute, firing a shot from outside the box past Tanzania’s Zuberi Foba. Charles M’Mombwa had equalized for Tanzania just two minutes earlier .
Tanzania responded shortly after the restart, drawing level in the 50th minute as Charles M’Mombwa side-footed in a lofted left-wing delivery from Novatus Miroshi.
Just two minutes later, former Nigeria beats African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman restored the lead for the West Africans, cleverly shifting the ball from his right to his left before firing an unstoppable shot into the top-right corner to secure all three points for Eric Chelle’s side.
Nigeria will now look to seal early qualification for the round of 16 when they face Tunisia in their next Group C fixture in Fes on Saturday, while Tanzania travel to Rabat for an all–East Africa encounter against Uganda.
