AFCON 2025: Ademola Lookman Fires Super Eagles to 2–1 Group C Win Against Tanzania
Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania in their Group C opener, played in Fes, Morocco.
The Super Eagles started the match on the front foot and were rewarded in the 36th minute when Semi Ajayi opened the scoring. The defender rose above his marker to head home a perfectly delivered cross from Alex Iwobi, giving Nigeria a deserved first-half lead.
Nigeria thought they had doubled their advantage shortly after when Victor Osimhen finished from close range following a fine cross from Adams. However, celebrations were cut short after a VAR review ruled the goal out for offside in the build-up, keeping the score at 1–0.
Tanzania returned from the break with renewed intensity and found an equalizer in the 52nd minute. Charles M’Mombwa struck a clean first-time finish to draw his side level and briefly shift the momentum of the contest.
The Super Eagles responded immediately. Just moments after conceding, Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s lead with a sharp strike from outside the penalty area, firing the ball beyond the Tanzanian goalkeeper to make it 2–1.
Despite late pressure from Tanzania, Nigeria remained composed and saw out the game to secure all three points. The win gives the Super Eagles a positive start to their AFCON 2025 campaign and places them in a strong position as they look ahead to their remaining Group C fixtures.
