Super Eagles’ hope of qualifying for the 2027 AFCON was almost fading away after Tanzania cancelled Alhassan Yusuf’s second minute goal through Alphonce Mabula Msanga in the 32nd minute but a superb second half show restored hope.
The first half ended 1-1 but Nigeria regained the lead through substitute Tolu Arokodare in the 52nd minute. The Ajax striker scored with a back flick off captain Wilfred Ndidi’s assists.
The Super Eagles made a bright start to the encounter, taking an early lead through Yusuf inside the opening two minutes. However, Nigeria gradually lost some of their attacking momentum despite maintaining possession and enjoying the better spell of play.
Tanzania, who had offered little attacking threat in the opening stages, found their way back into the game in the 32nd minute when Alphonce Mabula Msanga capitalised on a Nigerian defensive lapse.
Arokodare struck again on the hour mark after latching on to an inch-perfect cross from another subsititute
Arokodare
Moses Usor to make it 3-1 to give the Super Eagles a two-goal cushion.
