AFCON 2025: Tanzania coach warns Super Eagles as Eagles face stern test

Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi has acknowledged the quality of the Super Eagles of Nigeria ahead of their AFCON 2025 Group C opener, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The Argentina-born tactician insists that the Taifa Star must deliver a near-perfect performance to stand a chance against the 2013 AFCON champions.

Speaking at the official pre-match press conference, as observed by Soccernet.ng, Gamondi praised Nigeria’s attacking depth but stressed that Tanzania will not approach the game with fear; instead, they will focus on their organisation and belief as they prepare for the continental heavyweights.

Gamondi on Super Eagles’ attack

Gamondi admitted Nigeria possess one of the most dangerous attacking units in African football and has warned his players that concentration will be vital throughout the match.

“You don’t need to introduce the attacking force of Nigeria. When you see the quality of their players, you need to give more than 100 per cent.”

“The smallest mistake against this kind of team can punish you.”

Tactical discipline key against Super Eagles

The Tanzanian coach revealed that structure and organisation will form the backbone of his team’s approach against the Super Eagles, who boast players competing at the highest level in Europe.

“The key for us is the shape, the tactical discipline, the structure and the organisation.”

“In games like this, there is no room for mistakes.”

“We are not here only to defend”

Despite Nigeria’s firepower, Gamondi insisted Tanzania will not sit back throughout the game, stressing his team’s desire to compete and play football when possible.

“Our mentality is not only to defend. We want to recover the ball and try to attack as well.”

“We are coming here to compete with our guts.”

On Nigeria being the favourites

Gamondi accepted Nigeria’s status as one of the tournament favourites but made it clear that Tanzania will embrace the challenge rather than shy away from it.

“When you analyse Nigeria, you see where their players play and the level they are used to. They are among the best teams on the continent.”

Tanzania’s AFCON ambition

The former club coach highlighted Tanzania’s growth in recent years and described AFCON 2025 as an opportunity to test themselves against Africa’s elite.

“This is a very difficult group, with two of the five or six best teams in Africa.”

“But we are not afraid. We are here to learn, improve and prove the value of the Tanzanian player.”

Gamondi dismisses Nigeria’s World Cup setback

Asked whether Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the World Cup could affect them mentally, Gamondi dismissed the suggestion, backing the Super Eagles to respond strongly.

“I don’t believe Nigeria are mentally affected. Great players forget mistakes quickly.”

“I expect Nigeria to be very strong and motivated in this tournament.”

“Nobody can stop us from dreaming”

While admitting Nigeria hold the advantage on paper, Gamondi maintained that belief remains central to his team’s mindset.

“In football, anything is possible. Nobody can stop us from dreaming.”

“If we avoid mistakes and give an extra effort, we can do something good.”

 

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The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face the East Africans at 18:30 local time tomorrow, aiming to secure all three points as they continue their chase for a fourth AFCON title.