The Super Eagles of Nigeria returned to winning ways in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Nigeria made a flying start to the encounter, taking the lead in the third minute through Alhassan Yusuf, who finished brilliantly to put the hosts ahead.
However, Tanzania responded strongly and restored parity in the 36th minute after Wilfred Ndidi lost possession in midfield. Msanga capitalised on the defensive lapse to beat the Nigerian defence and make it 1-1.
The Super Eagles suffered another setback before half-time when Ademola Lookman was forced off with an injury and replaced by Moses Simon.
Both sides went into the break level, with Nigeria needing a stronger attacking display to regain the advantage.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle made two changes at the start of the second half, introducing Tolu Arokodare and Chidera Usor for Alhassan Yusuf and Raphael Onyedika.
The substitutions quickly paid off as Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute with an impressive flicked finish to make it 2-1.
The striker doubled his tally just eight minutes later, completing a well-worked attacking move created by fellow substitute Nsor to extend Nigeria’s advantage to 3-1.
With a two-goal cushion, Chelle’s men maintained control of the game in the closing stages, limiting Tanzania’s opportunities while looking for further goals.
Arokodare came close to completing his hat-trick but failed to convert another opportunity before the final whistle.
The victory handed Nigeria three important points and provided a timely boost to the Super Eagles’ bid to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
