Nigeria started their AFCON journey with a win as they beat Tanzania 2-1 in a tight game, making it 9 consecutive wins against the Taifa Stars.
After missing out on World Cup qualification and losing the pressure of the critics, the Super Eagles, led by Éric Chelle, showed a lot of energy in the game against Morocco. Nigeria came out strong and controlled the match from the start, with Akor Adams taking a shot which was saved by Zuberi Foba. Then the Nigerian striker’s header hit the crossbar. Victor Osimhen was also very close to scoring when he beat the goalkeeper, but his friend Bakari Mwamnyeto was able to clear the ball from the line.
The goal was scored as a result of a corner kick when Semi Ajayi barely touched to direct Alex Iwobi’s curling corner towards the net to put Nigeria comfortably ahead. The Super Eagles could have increased their lead just before the interval; however, Foba was in fine form to stop both Ndidi and Chukwueze.
Nigeria was taken aback a bit just after the start of the second half when Charles M’Mombwa thumped a volley into the net from Novatus Miroshi’s cross to bring the scores level. Nevertheless, the Super Eagles did not waste any time to show their class again when Ademola Lookman scored a brilliant goal by placing the ball into the top corner from outside the box only two minutes after Tanzania’s goal.
The Nigerian team was relentless in their pursuit of the third goal and had Lookman, Iwobi, and Osimhen all prevented from scoring, while Tanzania barely had a chance late on through Ibrahim Hamad. Ultimately, the Super Eagles were able to get through their first Group C match with a very important three points.
