The Super Eagles of Nigeria commenced their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) journey on a winning note, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Taifa Stars of Tanzania in their Group C opener at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco. This crucial win, staged on a cold and cloudy Moroccan morning, officially marked Nigeria's first outing at the tournament and the first AFCON 2025 fixture at the Stade de Fes.

Nigeria set the tempo early, dominating the first half with confident ball movement. Despite efforts from Samuel Chukwueze and Victor Osimhen, Tanzanian goalkeeper Zeberi Masudi made crucial saves. The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi delivered a perfectly lofted cross, met by Hull City defender Semi Ajayi, who powered a header into the net for a deserved lead. However, Tanzania refused to concede easily. Charles M’Mombwa capitalized on a lapse in concentration, firing a first-time effort to equalize. Nigeria's response was swift; just two minutes later, Ademola Lookman struck with authority from the edge of the box, restoring Nigeria’s advantage and ultimately securing all three points.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle acknowledged the team's strengths and weaknesses post-match. He praised the first-half performance, noting the creation of numerous scoring chances. However, he also highlighted two crucial mistakes in the second half that allowed Tanzania back into the game. Chelle emphasized the importance of continuous improvement throughout the tournament, stating, “We need to defend better and more movement with the ball when we are not playing well. I congratulate my players, but there's a lot of work to be done.”

Several players offered their perspectives on the match and the road ahead. Semi Ajayi, who was deservedly named Man of the Match, expressed his delight at scoring for his country and getting the team off to a good start. He stressed the importance of collective goal-scoring from all positions and admitted areas for improvement, particularly in "killing teams off." Ajayi also reflected on past disappointments, aiming to channel that pain into positive performances.

Star striker Victor Osimhen endured a night of near misses and visible frustration. Despite leading the line with intensity, producing seven shots, and working tirelessly, he was unlucky not to find the net, with a goal disallowed for a marginal offside and other chances cleared. His frustration was evident when substituted for Paul Onuachu five minutes from time. Nigeria captain Wilfred Ndidi downplayed any discord, understanding Osimhen's emotional investment and commitment to the team, promising to speak with him.

Winger Moses Simon, who came on as a substitute, defended the team's performance, reminding fans that "football is not that easy" and urging continued support. He emphasized the importance of the three points and the team's ability to handle pressure. Similarly, Chidera Ejuke, an unused substitute, expressed pride in representing Nigeria and stressed the collective objective over individual playing time, stating that victory, not aesthetics, is the priority in tournament football.

Akor Adams, another Sevilla player representing Nigeria, received special praise from former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh, who singled him out as the most impressive performer. Oliseh lauded Adams' intensity, movement, and tactical intelligence, noting his impact despite not scoring. Adams himself acknowledged the need for further improvement, stating, "The most important thing in a tournament is to win, no matter the level of performance... we have to get better."

From the Tanzanian camp, head coach Manuel Gomandi expressed pride in his players' performance, noting they "surprised so many people" with their disciplined and brave display. Despite the narrow defeat, Gomandi insisted his side earned respect for their tactical approach and unwillingness to "pack the bus" against a superior opponent.

With this victory, Nigeria sits second in Group C, two points adrift of Tunisia, who defeated Uganda 3-1. The Super Eagles' next challenge is a critical encounter against Tunisia, scheduled for Saturday, December 27th, at the same venue. This fixture is anticipated to be a stern test and will likely determine who finishes at the summit of Group C. External commentators like former Arsenal defender Johan Djourou already view Nigeria as genuine contenders for the AFCON title, alongside Morocco, Ivory Coast, and Senegal, while former Everton striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni praised Nigeria's midfield display and defensive efforts.