The Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 journey officially kicked off at 18:30 in Fes, but the story of Nigeria’s opening-night victory over Tanzania had begun long before the first whistle—and lingered well after it.
A cold, cloudy Moroccan morning greeted the fans and even journalists, with temperatures hovering around nine degrees centigrade.
It was Nigeria’s first outing at the tournament and the first AFCON 2025 fixture to be staged at the Stade de Fes.
Rushing to the stadium ahead of kick-off, Soccernet.ng caught glimpses of the build-up, the anticipation, familiar faces and quiet confidence.
Among those spotted early was former Arsenal defender Johan Djourou. Speaking to Soccernet.ng, the ex-Swiss international offered a measured assessment of the title race and pointed to Nigeria as genuine contenders.
“It’s tough. I think Morocco at home will be tricky. I think Nigeria have got a card to play,” Djourou said to Soccernet.ng. “Ivory Coast as the defending champions as well. Senegal have a very good team.
I think Senegal are very strong, so it’s a tough one, but the teams most equipped to win it — I would say Morocco and Ivory Coast because they just won it.”
Super Eagles strike first, wobble briefly, then respond
Once action got underway, Nigeria set the tempo immediately. The Super Eagles dominated the first half, moving the ball with confidence and forcing Tanzania onto the back foot.
Samuel Chukwueze came close on more than one occasion, but Tanzanian goalkeeper Zeberi Masudi stood firm, producing crucial blocks to keep his side alive.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 36th minute. Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi delivered a beautifully lofted cross into the area, and Hull City defender Semi Ajayi rose highest to power a header into the net, giving Nigeria a deserved lead.
Tanzania, however, refused to fold. Charles M’mombwa punished a lapse in concentration, firing a first-time effort from inside the box into the left corner to restore parity.
The joy among Tanzanian supporters was short-lived.
Just two minutes later, Ademola Lookman struck with authority from the edge of the box, restoring Nigeria’s advantage and securing all three points for Nigeria.
Osimhen’s frustration
Victor Osimhen led the line with intensity and worked tirelessly for the team. He produced seven shots – the highest – during the game with an expected goal of 0.57. But he was just unlucky.
Though chances came and went, the Galatasaray striker cut a frustrated figure when substituted for Paul Onuachu, clearly disappointed not to have found the net.
Former Everton striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni, speaking to Soccernet.ng after the match, was quick to defend Nigeria’s talisman.
“So far, so good. As a striker, you miss chances and you score,” Yakubu said to Soccernet. He worked so hard for the team and he was just unlucky not to score today.”
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What was that DR Congo fan trying out?
Beyond the football, the stands told their own story. Soccernet.ng spotted a DR Congo fan proudly displaying his nation’s flag during the contest, which quickly reminded everyone of Nigeria's pending saga with DR Congo, just a month and eight days after the Super Eagles lost their second chance of playing at the 2026 World Cup.
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Ajayi shines, Nigeria look ahead
At full-time, Nigeria had done enough. The Super Eagles secured all three points in their AFCON opener, laying down an early marker in Group C.
Semi Ajayi was deservedly named Man of the Match after a commanding display at both ends of the pitch.
“It’s an amazing feeling to score for your country — always an amazing feeling,” Ajayi told reporters.
“To get us off to a really good start, I’m really happy.”
The defender emphasised the importance of collective contribution:
“One team can’t rely just on attackers. We need goals from everywhere — defenders, midfielders — if we want to do well in a tournament.”
Ajayi also admitted there were areas to improve:
“There are positives, but there are things we can do better. We need to kill teams off, and we’ll work on that in training.”
Reflecting on past disappointments, he added:
“I’m still feeling the pain of that penalty miss every day. I just need to channel that pain into something positive and give my all every time I put on the jersey.”
Tunisia next: bigger test awaits
Nigeria now turn their attention to Tunisia, who cruised past Uganda in their opener. The clash, scheduled for December 27—just after Boxing Day—is expected to be one of the tournament’s early heavyweight encounters.
The 2013 AFCON champions have well laid the foundations, but sterner tests lie ahead.
