Arokodare brace fires Super Eagles to 3-1 victory over Tanzania

Nigeria’s Super Eagles eased the pressure after their 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau by recording a 3-1 victory over Tanzania in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign. The encounter took place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

The Super Eagles took an early lead just two minutes into the match through Alhassan Yusuf, who finished off a pass from Ademola Lookman. Nigeria maintained possession in the opening stages, keeping Tanzania under pressure and creating opportunities to extend their advantage.

Tanzania, however, drew level in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, who capitalised on an opportunity to restore parity against the run of play. Both teams went into the halftime break tied at 1-1 after Nigeria’s early dominance failed to produce a sustained lead.

Nigeria returned for the second half with renewed attacking intent as Head Coach Éric Chelle introduced Moses Usor and Tolu Arokodare in place of Alhassan Yusuf and Tochukwu Nnadi.

The substitution quickly yielded results when Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute, converting with a backheel finish from a cross by captain Wilfred Ndidi.

The striker completed his brace eight minutes later in the 60th minute, firing a low shot into the net off a cross from Moses Usor to extend Nigeria’s advantage to 3-1.

Tanzania Head Coach Miguel Gamondi subsequently made adjustments to revive his side’s chances, introducing Charles M’Mombwa alongside more substitutions. Despite the changes, the Tanzanians failed to find a response as Nigeria held on to secure all three points.

Nigeria now sits in second place in Group L with six points, trailing group leaders Guinea-Bissau, who lead the standings with seven points.