The Super Eagles manufactured a much-needed victory in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, edging Tanzania 2-1 in Fes, but it was far from a flawless performance from Eric Chelle’s men, Footynaija.com reports.
Goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman on either side of half-time proved enough to secure all three points, ensuring that Charles M’Mombwa’s early second-half equaliser for Tanzania ultimately counted for little on the night.
Nigeria largely controlled proceedings, particularly in the first half, where their pressing intensity, ball circulation and attacking intent pinned the Taifa Stars back for long spells.
There was also plenty to admire in the hunger and desire shown in advanced areas, as the Super Eagles consistently worked shooting opportunities and forced Tanzania into a largely reactive game.
However, beneath the positives were some worrying lapses that threatened to undermine an otherwise dominant display.
Where the Super Eagles showed lapses
Despite heading into the match having failed to score in six of their previous eight AFCON outings, Tanzania still found a way through Nigeria’s backline in Fes.
A momentary loss of concentration early in the second half allowed M’Mombwa to score from close range, once again exposing the Super Eagles’ vulnerability when faced with direct pressure.
That concession continued an unsettling trend for Nigeria, who had kept just one clean sheet in their six matches prior to the tournament. While the defence recovered well enough to see out the game, the ease with which Tanzania fashioned their goal will not have gone unnoticed by Chelle and his technical crew.
At the other end of the pitch, Nigeria’s attacking output also left room for improvement. The Super Eagles created a host of chances, registering 21 shots and a superior expected goals tally, yet their failure to turn dominance into a more comfortable score-line kept Tanzania in the contest longer than necessary.
Akor Adams struck the woodwork, while Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman all had efforts saved or narrowly missed the target. On another night, such profligacy could prove costly against stronger opposition.
Improvements needed ahead of Tunisia test
Those shortcomings will need to be addressed quickly as Nigeria prepare for their next group game against Tunisia. On paper, the Carthage Eagles represent a far sterner test than Tanzania, boasting greater organisation, discipline and the ability to punish mistakes.
For the Super Eagles to maintain their momentum, improvements are required at both ends of the pitch. Defensive concentration must be sharper to avoid gifting opponents encouragement, while greater ruthlessness in front of goal will be essential to put games to bed when Nigeria are on top.
Against Tunisia, who knocked the Super Eagles out of the 2021 AFCON in their last encounter, such margins are unlikely to be forgiven.
