Nigeria 2-1 Tanzania AFCON 2025: Super Eagles Edge Thrilling Victory in Group C Opener
- Mr Football
- Dec 23, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 24, 2025
The Super Eagles of Nigeria kicked off their AFCON 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Tanzania's Taifa Stars on December 23, 2025, at the Fez Stadium in Morocco. Ademola Lookman's stunning strike proved decisive as Nigeria overcame a second-half scare to claim three vital points in Group C.
Match Summary: Nigeria 2-1 Tanzania Afcon Clash
Nigeria dominated possession early, breaking the deadlock in the 36th minute when defender Semi Ajayi powered home a header from a set-piece. The Super Eagles looked comfortable heading into halftime, but Tanzania stunned them shortly after the restart.
Charles M'Mombwa equalized in the 50th minute with a clinical first-time finish, injecting life into the underdogs. However, Nigeria responded almost immediately, Atalanta star Ademola Lookman unleashed a blistering 25-yard screamer just two minutes later to restore the lead.
Despite late pressure from Tanzania, including a missed chance by Ibrahim Hamad, Nigeria 2-1 Tanzania Afcon 2025 it was.
Key Moments and Standout Performers
Semi Ajayi (36'): Header gives Nigeria the lead.
Charles M'Mombwa (50'): Quick equalizer shocks the favorites.
Ademola Lookman (52'): Thunderbolt winner seals the points.
Lookman, a hero from the 2023 AFCON final run, once again delivered when it mattered. Victor Osimhen threatened but couldn't find the net, while Alex Iwobi controlled midfield.
Tanzania impressed with resilient defending and counter-attacks, extending their winless AFCON streak but earning praise for their spirited display.
What This Means for AFCON 2025 Group C
Nigeria tops Group C with three points, boosting their bid for a fourth title after missing the 2026 World Cup. Tanzania, still seeking their first-ever AFCON win (now 10 games without victory), showed promise ahead of clashes with Uganda and Tunisia.
The Super Eagles face Tunisia next on December 27, can they build momentum? Stay tuned for more AFCON 2025 results and highlights!
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