Nigeria began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, Footynaija reports.
Tolu Arokodare scored twice after coming off the bench to help the Super Eagles secure all three points following a first half that ended 1-1.
Nigeria took the lead just two minutes into the game through Alhassan Yusuf, who put Eric Chelle’s side ahead with an early goal.
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Yusuf was booked in the 12th minute, but Nigeria continued to control much of the play. Tanzania, however, grew into the contest and found an equaliser in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga.
The goal brought the Taifa Stars back into the game, and neither side could find another breakthrough before half-time.
Chelle turned to Arokodare after the break, and the striker made an immediate impact.
The Ajax forward restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute before scoring again eight minutes later to give the hosts a two-goal cushion. His second goal came after a sharp first touch and a composed finish.
Tanzania coach Miguel Gamondi responded with three substitutions in the 66th minute, introducing Shekhani Khamis, Iddy Seleman Nado and Simon Msuva as his side searched for a way back into the match.
But Nigeria kept their opponents at bay for the remainder of the game to claim a 3-1 win.
The Super Eagles will now travel to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture against Tanzania, with Arokodare’s two-goal performance giving Chelle plenty to consider ahead of the next meeting.
