Nigeria’s Super Eagles bounced back from their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau with an impressive 3-1 victory over Tanzania in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
The Super Eagles got off to a flying start when Alhassan Yusuf opened the scoring in the second minute, finishing off a pass from Ademola Lookman to give Nigeria an early advantage.
Nigeria dominated possession in the opening stages, putting the visitors under pressure and creating several opportunities to extend their lead.
However, Tanzania fought back and restored parity in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, who capitalised on an opportunity to make it 1-1.
Despite Nigeria’s early dominance, both teams went into the halftime break level, with the Super Eagles unable to regain their lead.
Nigeria returned for the second half with renewed attacking intent, prompting Coach Éric Chelle to introduce Moses Usor and Tolu Arokodare for Alhassan Yusuf and Tochukwu Nnadi.
The changes quickly paid off as Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute, finishing with a backheel after connecting with a cross from Captain Wilfred Ndidi.
The striker doubled his tally eight minutes later, converting another cross, this time from Moses Usor, with a low finish to put Nigeria 3-1 ahead.
Tanzania coach Miguel Gamondi responded with substitutions in an attempt to revive his team’s chances, introducing Charles M’Mombwa and making further changes.
However, the visitors struggled to break down Nigeria’s defence as the Super Eagles maintained their advantage until the final whistle.
The victory takes Nigeria to second place in Group L with six points, one behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, who have seven points.
