Nigeria opened their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Tanzania in challenging wet conditions in Fes, keeping their hopes of a fourth continental title firmly alive.
The Super Eagles started on the front foot, dominating possession and pinning Tanzania back for long spells.
Their pressure finally told in the 36th minute when Semi Ajayi rose well to glance a header past goalkeeper Zuberi Foba from Alex Iwobi’s teasing cross.
Nigeria looked in control before the break and went close to extending their lead, only for Foba to deny Samuel Chukwueze with a sharp save.
Tanzania emerged with renewed energy after half-time and stunned Nigeria by drawing level in the 50th minute. Charles M’Mombwa showed composure inside the box, side-footing home after Novatus Miroshi’s delivery caused confusion in the Nigerian defence.
The equaliser briefly shifted momentum, but Nigeria responded almost immediately. Just two minutes later, Ademola Lookman produced a moment of class, shifting the ball onto his left foot before curling an unstoppable strike into the top corner to restore Nigeria’s lead.
That goal proved decisive as Nigeria managed the closing stages professionally, securing three crucial points. Eric Chelle’s side now turn their focus to Tunisia, aiming to seal early qualification for the knockout rounds, while Tanzania face Uganda in their next Group C fixture.