The Super Eagles will begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign against Tanzania on Tuesday, looking to build on their runners-up finish at the last edition of the tournament in Côte d’Ivoire.
Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda, but will first face the Taifa Stars at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco.
After the disappointment of missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Super Eagles head into the tournament determined to restore pride and challenge for continental honours.
Tuesday’s encounter will mark only the second AFCON meeting between Nigeria and Tanzania. Their first clash came 45 years ago at the 1980 tournament hosted by Nigeria, where the Super Eagles recorded a 3–1 victory in Lagos on their way to lifting the trophy.
Boasting a squad filled with players competing in top European leagues, Nigeria will rely on the quality of stars such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Calvin Bassey and Chidera Ejuke as they pursue a fourth AFCON title.
Nigeria hold a clear advantage over Tanzania, having won four of their seven previous meetings. The Super Eagles last faced the Taifa Stars during the qualifiers for the 2017 AFCON, drawing away in Dar es Salaam before securing a win in Uyo.
Nigeria will be without Benjamin Fredricks and Ola Aina due to injury, while former captain William Troost-Ekong has retired from international football. However, coach Eric Chelle still has a strong squad at his disposal, with Samuel Chukwueze and Victor Osimhen arriving at the tournament in good form.
Tanzania have no injury concerns and will count on the experience of captain Mbwana Samatta and winger Simon Msuva as they seek to challenge the West Africans.
Speaking ahead of the match, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle described the opener as crucial, stressing the importance of starting the tournament strongly. “This is a big game for us and our focus is on winning,” the Franco-Malian said. “Right now, everything is about this tournament and this match.”
Tanzania coach Miguel Gamondi admitted Nigeria are favourites but insisted his side believe they can cause an upset. “Maybe Nigeria have 99 per cent, but in football anything can happen,” the Argentine said. “Beating Nigeria would feel like winning the AFCON for us, especially at the start.”
Match details
- Competition: AFCON 2025, Group C
- Venue: Complexe Sportif de Fès, Morocco
- Date: Tuesday, December 23
- Kick-off: 6:30pm (WAT)
With their history and quality, the Super Eagles will be confident of securing all three points, but Tanzania will be eager to spring a surprise and begin their campaign on a high note.
