Nigeria – Tanzania: Super Eagles itching to bounce back 
Runners-up last time, Nigeria begin their Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday against Tanzania in Fez. A crucial opener. The squad’s still smarting from recent disappointments, and they want to set things straight from the first whistle.
Nigeria: turn the page and lay new foundations 
Nigeria arrives at this AFCON with mixed emotions. On one hand, they reached the final last edition. On the other, they missed the 2026 World Cup — painfully, after a penalty shootout exit to DR Congo in the playoffs.
That blow left marks. For the first time since the 90s the Super Eagles will miss two World Cups in a row. Heavy stuff for a nation used to the big stages. It turns this tournament into a must-do, sportswise.
Form is messy. A friendly loss to Egypt halted an otherwise decent run. Still, the overall mood is positive. They might not be brimming with confidence, but it’s hard to see Nigeria flopping against a much weaker side.
The memory of failing on the opening day of the last AFCON is a warning. They stumbled first time, then built up to the final. This time the brief is simple: start fast and hard.
With leaders like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi, Eric Chelle has a stacked squad, even if a few familiar faces are missing. Wilfred Ndidi gets the armband now — tasked with adding balance and leadership in midfield.
Tanzania: little pressure, plenty of headaches 
Tanzania turn up with far lower expectations. For the Taifa Stars the big target is 2027 — an AFCON they’ll co-host. For now, the goal is simple: look more competitive than in past appearances.
Their continental record is poor. Four appearances. Zero knockout spots. Last time they finished bottom of their group. Recent results don’t inspire confidence.
Miguel Gamondi’s men haven’t won for a while. The attack is struggling. Few goals. Few chances. Repeated losses to better-organised sides. Against Nigeria the step up is brutal.
The squad, at least, is complete. Simon Msuva returns and could hit the 100-cap mark. Mbwana Samatta is the other main threat. But the pair will need help to trouble a Nigerian defence that’s stronger on paper.
Likely line-ups
Nigeria: Nwabali, Sanusi, Bassey, Ajayi, Osayi-Samuel, Ndidi, Iwobi, Chukwueze, Lookman, Osimhen, Adams
Tanzania: Suleiman, Kaponbe, Mwamnyeto, D. Job, M. Husseini, N. Miroshi, F. Salum, Msuva, M’Mombwa, Allarakhia, Samatta
Key takeaways
- Nigeria come off a CAN final but suffered a World Cup failure.
- The Super Eagles are clearly superior up front.
- Tanzania struggle to score and lack high-level experience.
- A strong start is essential for Nigeria.
Football Prediction Nigeria vs Tanzania
Nigeria to win by at least two goals
Nigeria’s defence isn’t immaculate, but Tanzania’s lack of firepower keeps the risk low. With more quality in the final third, the Super Eagles should win comfortably in their opener.
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