Super  Eagles dim Taifa Stars  to kick-start campaign

Lookman grabs  winner, Ajay awarded MOTM

As widely expected, the  Super Eagles got off   their campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON, Morocco 2025,  on a winning note  following  a hard-earned 2–1 victory over  the Taifa Stars of Tanzania in  their Group C clash at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.

Nigeria dominated the early exchanges and came close to an opening goal when Akor Adams’ header graced  the crossbar, while Ademola Lookman also tested the Tanzanian defence with a deflected effort that went narrowly wide.

The pressure continued as Victor Osimhen was denied by a last-ditch clearance after rounding the opposing goalkeeper midway through the first half.

But  it was Semi Ajayi  that broke the deadlock in the 36^th minute  as he headed home a well-delivered set-piece from  Alex Iwobi for what was his second goal  for the  Super Eagles

Thereafter, Tanzania goalkeeper Zuberi Foba produced several fine saves including a late stop from Samuel Chukwueze to keep the deficit at one heading into the break.

The Super  Eagles nearly  doubled their advantage immediately after the restart through  but Victor Osimhen’s effort was ruled  offside by VAR. Almost immediately,  it was the  Taifa Stars who were  smiling after  an unmarked Charles M’Mombwa slotted  the ball past  goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Yet  the Super Eagles responded swiftly, with Iwobi again at the heart of the move, setting up Lookman to restore Nigeria’s lead with a clinical finish in the 52^nd  minute. Despite several missed chances to extend their advantage, Nigeria saw out the closing stages with composure to claim all three points.

While  Semi Ajayi  was  deservedly  awarded the Man of the Match Award, victory earned Nigeria the vital three points ahead of their next encounter with Tunisia on Saturday while Tanzania will seek a response when they face Uganda in their second group match on the same day.