It wasn't the dominant statement of intent many expected, but for a Nigerian side carrying the heavy weight of recent failures, it was enough. Ademola Lookman provided the spark of brilliance necessary to secure a 2–1 victory over a stubborn Tanzania on Tuesday night, ensuring the Super Eagles’ 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign started with a win, if not entirely with a flourish.
Under the floodlights of the Stade de Fès, this felt like more than just a group stage opener. Following a crushing failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the Super Eagles arrived in Morocco under a cloud of scepticism. For much of the first half, those nerves seemed to settle as Nigeria controlled the tempo, eventually finding their breakthrough in the 36th minute. Semi Ajayi, often the unsung hero of the backline, rose high to meet an Alex Iwobi cross, thumping a header home to give the Nigerian faithful in the stands a reason to roar.
However, the second half served as a stark reminder that there are no easy games in modern African football. Just five minutes after the restart, the stadium fell silent as Tanzania’s Charles M’Mombwa ghosted into the box to finish a clinical counter-attack. In that moment, the ghosts of Nigeria’s recent collapses seemed to haunt the pitch. The Taifa Stars, largely written off before kickoff, celebrated with the joy of a team that sensed an upset.
But big players find ways to win tight games. Barely 120 seconds after conceding, Ademola Lookman took matters into his own hands. Collecting a pass on the edge of the area, the Atalanta forward showcased the footwork that has made him a household name in Europe, weaving through two defenders before picking out the bottom corner with a laser-focused strike. It was a goal born of pure individual quality, and it was enough to settle the contest.
The relief on the face of head coach Éric Chelle was visible at the final whistle. Chelle, who has spent the last week urging his players to block out the "external noise" and focus on their own growth, saw a team that is clearly still a work in progress. While the creativity of Iwobi and the persistence of Lookman were bright spots, the inability to finish off chances—specifically for Victor Osimhen, who had a frustrating night in front of goal—will be a point of concern.
Tanzania leaves Fez with their heads held high. Under interim manager Miguel Gamondi, they pushed one of the continent's giants to the very edge. Their disciplined defensive shape and lightning-fast transitions suggested that they will be a handful for the other teams in Group C.
For Nigeria, however, the focus now shifts immediately to a massive showdown with Tunisia on Saturday. The Super Eagles have the points, but they are still searching for the rhythm that could take them all the way.
