Ajayi and Lookman fire Nigeria past spirited Tanzania

Nigeria began their Africa Cup of Nations Group C journey with a hard earned 2-1 victory over Tanzania at the Complexe Sportif de Fes, overcoming a brief second half setback to secure all three points.

The Super Eagles dominated early proceedings and were rewarded in the 36th minute when Semi Ajayi rose highest to head home from an Alex Iwobi corner. The defender’s powerful header gave Nigeria a deserved lead after sustained pressure that had already seen Akor Adams hit the crossbar and Victor Osimhen go close on several occasions.

Tanzania remained compact and dangerous on the counter, with Mbwana Samatta and Simon Msuva testing Nigeria’s back line, but Stanley Nwabali stood firm to keep his side ahead at the break.

The match exploded into life shortly after the restart. Tanzania stunned Nigeria in the 50th minute when Charles M’Mombwa reacted quickest inside the six yard box to tap in after good work from Novatus Miroshi, levelling the score and injecting belief into the Taifa Stars.

Nigeria’s response was swift and decisive. Just two minutes later, Ademola Lookman cut inside from midfield and unleashed a low left footed strike from outside the box that beat Zuberi Foba at the bottom corner to restore the Super Eagles’ lead.

The remainder of the second half turned into a physical and stop start affair, with fouls, injuries and substitutions disrupting the rhythm. Tanzania pushed forward in search of another equaliser, winning several corners and set pieces, but lacked the final touch to truly trouble Nigeria late on.

Victor Osimhen led the line tirelessly before being replaced by Paul Onuachu in the closing stages, while Wilfred Ndidi and Calvin Bassey played key roles in shielding the defence as pressure mounted.

Despite Tanzania’s late surge and a nervy finish, Nigeria managed the game well and saw out the final minutes to claim a crucial opening win in Group C.

The result places Nigeria in a strong early position, while Tanzania can take encouragement from a disciplined and competitive display that suggests they will not be pushovers as the group stage continues.