The Super Eagles of Nigeria begin their quest for Africa Cup of Nations glory this evening, facing Tanzania in their Group C opener in Fes. After the heartbreak of missing out on the 2026 World Cup, the Nigerian squad, spearheaded by star striker Victor Osimhen, is determined to go one better than their final defeat in 2023 and conquer the continent.
Seeking Redemption After World Cup Agony
Nigeria's journey to this tournament has been fraught with disappointment. The team's failure to qualify for a second successive World Cup, culminating in a penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the play-off final, casts a long shadow. This Afcon campaign represents a critical opportunity for redemption and to restore national pride.
Despite a recent 2-1 friendly loss to Egypt disrupting their momentum, expectations remain sky-high for a squad brimming with attacking talent. Captain Wilfred Ndidi will marshal the midfield, with the creative burden falling on the likes of Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze to supply the prolific Victor Osimhen.
Taifa Stars Aim to Spring a Surprise
On paper, Tanzania are clear underdogs. However, the Taifa Stars will be hoping to capitalise on any Nigerian nerves and pull off a shock result to open their own campaign. Their squad contains a few familiar faces for British football fans, including former Aston Villa forward Ally Samatta and Rochdale winger Tarryn Allarakhia.
The match kicks off at 5:30pm local time at the Fez Stadium, following the conclusion of the Group D clash between Senegal and Botswana. Senegal, another title favourite, have already taken a commanding 2-0 lead in Tangier thanks to a brace from Bayern Munich's Nicolas Jackson.
Tournament in Full Swing After Dramatic Start
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, hosted by Morocco, is already delivering drama. On Monday night, Mohamed Salah shrugged off speculation about his club future to score a sensational 91st-minute winner for Egypt against Zimbabwe, securing a 2-1 comeback victory for the Pharaohs.
Hosts Morocco opened the tournament in style on Sunday, with Ayoub El Kaabi scoring an astonishing bicycle kick in a 2-0 win over Comoros. Earlier today, DR Congo began their Group D campaign with a 1-0 victory over Benin.
For viewers in the United Kingdom, every match of the tournament is being broadcast free-to-air, with coverage split between Channel 4, E4, 4Seven, and the Channel 4 streaming service.
Predicted Nigeria XI: Nwabali; Sanusi, Bassey, Ajayi, Osayi-Samuel; Ndidi, Iwobi, Chukwueze, Lookman; Osimhen, Adams.
Predicted Tanzania XI: Suleiman; Kaponbe, Mwamnyeto, D. Job, M. Husseini; N Miroshi, F Salum; Msuva, M'Mombwa, Allarakhia; Samatta.
