Super Eagles keep 2027 AFCON hopes alive with 3-1 win over Tanzania

By Tosin Omojola

Nigeria’s Super Eagles produced an impressive second-half performance to defeat Tanzania 3-1 in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group L qualifier in Uyo.

The victory came after Madagascar held group leaders Guinea-Bissau to a 1-1 draw, giving Nigeria a chance to close the gap at the top of the table.

Nigeria had to recover after both teams went into half-time level at 1-1. The Super Eagles took an early lead through Alhassan Yusuf in the 10th minute, but Tanzania equalised in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Mabula Msanga.

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle made changes at the break, injecting fresh energy into the team. Substitute Tolu Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute, brilliantly finishing Wilfred Ndidi’s pull-out with an acrobatic back-heel flick.

Arokodare struck again eight minutes later, curling the ball into the net after another well-timed pass.

Tanzania increased their attacking efforts, but Nigeria’s defence held firm to preserve the two-goal advantage until the final whistle.

The teams will meet again on Tuesday in Tanzania for the return fixture.

The victory takes Nigeria to six points, one behind Group L leaders Guinea-Bissau, who have seven.