The opening fixture of Group D, featuring heavy favourites Nigeria’s Super Eagles against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania, began with an intense burst of energy, truly starting like a house on fire. From the first whistle, both sides showed clear intent, pressing high and committing bodies forward as they looked to stamp their authority on the match early.
However, despite the early urgency, neither team was willing to take unnecessary risks. As a result, the opening 15 minutes remained cagey and tightly contested, with challenges flying in across the pitch and both defences staying compact. Nigeria attempted to control possession and build from the back, while Tanzania matched them with discipline and physicality, refusing to be overawed by their more fancied opponents.
Meanwhile, midfield battles defined the early exchanges, as space was at a premium and clear chances were hard to come by. Consequently, the game developed into a tense tactical duel, setting the tone for a fiercely competitive contest as both teams carefully measured their approach in the early stage
As the game settled, Nigeria began to grow into it. They took control of possession almost as if Tanzania were happy to let the Super Eagles have the ball for large spells of the first half.
Nigeria stayed on that path, dictating play, with Samuel Chukwueze constantly driving at the Tanzanian defence. His mazy runs pinned them deep in their own box.
That pressure finally paid off in the 36th minute. A short corner routine saw Chukwueze feed Ademola Lookman, who laid it off to Alex Iwobi.
With superb technique, Iwobi floated a delightful cross into the box. Semi Ajayi rose highest to head home inside the left post and put Nigeria ahead.
The first half ended with Nigeria firmly on the front foot, dominating possession (63% to 37%). They went into the break with a deserved one-goal lead.
The second half exploded into life almost immediately. There were three goals in the space of five frantic minutes, although one didn’t count.
Just a minute after the restart, Victor Osimhen connected with a low right-sided cross from Akor Adams. However, the Nigerian striker was marginally offside, and the goal was ruled out.
That moment seemed to spark Tanzania into life. They took the game to Nigeria, moving the ball with real purpose. It paid off when Charles M’Mombwa fired a first-time shot from inside the box to beat Stanley Nwabali at his left post, making it 1–1.
Nigeria were stunned but only briefly. Ademola Lookman took matters into his own hands in the 52nd minute.
Picking up the ball just outside the Tanzanian box, around 25 yards out, he weaved past defenders. He unleashed a magnificent strike from the edge of the area into the right post. Zuberi Foba had no chance. Nigeria were back in front.
From there, the game opened up. Tanzania pushed hard for an equaliser, and Nigeria’s defence looked shaky at times, struggling to clear their lines.
One such moment saw a loose ball fall to Ibrahim Hamad deep inside the box. His well-hit effort flew just over the bar.
At full time, Nigeria edged possession 59% to 45%. Numbers reflected how close and competitive the game turned out to be.
Akor Adams (Nigeria):
Akor Adams was instrumental to Nigeria’s attacking play from the first half.
Lining up in a 4-4-2 alongside Victor Osimhen, he linked up well. He stretched the Tanzanian defence with intelligent runs. He consistently caused problems with his dribbling and energy.
His movement and hold-up play played a big role in Nigeria’s attacking rhythm.
Zuberi Foba (Tanzania):
For Tanzania, Zuberi Foba stood out despite the defeat.
On his international debut, he delivered an impressive performance between the sticks. He made crucial saves and spared Tanzania from further damage.
To be thrown into a fixture of this magnitude for your first cap and perform with such composure was genuinely impressive to watch.
This win serves as a solid foundation for Nigeria’s tournament. With the star power at their disposal, the Super Eagles showed they have the firepower to respond when tested. Ademola Lookman’s moment of brilliance proved decisive.
However, the defensive frailties on display are a concern and could be exploited by stronger opposition.
Are Nigeria early favourites? They can be but only if they tighten up at the back and grow into the tournament as a unit.
