Super Eagles enter a big Tanzania week

Nigeria’s Super Eagles needed nothing less than a victory against Tanzania to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The team delivered on Friday, November 13, defeating Tanzania 3-1 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The Group L encounter was an important test for Nigeria, who entered the match under pressure following a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in September. Having collected three points from their opening two matches, the Super Eagles needed to secure another victory to remain competitive in the qualification race.

Nigeria made an impressive start when Alhassan Yusuf opened the scoring in the second minute after receiving a pass from Ademola Lookman. However, Tanzania responded in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, bringing the score to 1-1 before half-time.

Head coach Éric Chelle introduced Tolu Arokodare and Moses Usor at the beginning of the second half, and the changes quickly made a difference. Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute with an effort assisted by captain Wilfred Ndidi.

The striker completed his brace eight minutes later, scoring Nigeria’s third goal after receiving a cross from substitute Moses Usor. The Super Eagles maintained their advantage until the final whistle, securing all three points.

Before the match, Nigeria were third in the qualification race with three points from two games, behind Guinea-Bissau, who had seven points, and Madagascar, who had two. Tanzania had one point but were already guaranteed a place at the 2027 tournament as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda.

Following the victory, Nigeria moved into second position in Group L with six points, just one point behind Guinea-Bissau, who remained at the top with seven points. Madagascar stayed third with two points, while Tanzania remained on one point.

The result matters because Nigeria must finish as the highest-ranked team among the three countries competing for the remaining qualification place in Group L. Tanzania’s automatic qualification as co-hosts means Nigeria’s main challenge is to finish above Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar.

To achieve this, the Super Eagles must continue winning their remaining matches, avoid unnecessary dropped points and improve their consistency, particularly against their direct qualification rivals.

Nigeria will face Tanzania again on Tuesday, November 17, in Zanzibar. Another victory would give the team a stronger position as the qualification campaign continues.

The 3-1 result has provided Nigeria with an important boost, but the Super Eagles still have work to do before they can secure their place at AFCON 2027.