AFCON 2027: Super Eagles Have No Room For Error Against Tanzania
Chelle’s men seek to revive qualification hopes after Guinea-Bissau setback
Nigeria will be looking to revive their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign when they face Tanzania in a crucial double-header, with Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle targeting maximum points from both encounters.
The three-time African champions host the Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday before travelling to Zanzibar for Tuesday’s return fixture.
Nigeria have little room for another slip-up after recovering from a goal down to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo on September 25, only to suffer a damaging 3-0 defeat away to Guinea-Bissau four days later.
The Super Eagles have three points from their opening two matches, and six points against Tanzania would strengthen their bid for a place at the 2027 AFCON finals, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Chelle and captain Wilfred Ndidi have stressed the importance of putting the Guinea-Bissau defeat behind them and securing victories in both matches.
‘We must work hard in these two matches and do everything to win. It is important to sustain the hope and all the players are in that mood to banish the memory of that defeat to Guinea-Bissau and show their true quality,’ Chelle said.
‘The spirit in camp is high and everyone is focused on achieving victory in both matches.’
Chelle has several options as he considers changes to his team, particularly in defence and midfield. Benjamin Fredricks, Chibuike Nwaiwu and Abdullahi Ibrahim Bewene offer alternatives at the back, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Samson Tijani and Tochukwu Nnadi could feature in a reshaped midfield.
Nigeria will again be without Victor Osimhen, who sustained an injury while playing for Galatasaray in Turkey shortly before the squad was announced.
In the striker’s absence, Chelle is expected to look to Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare for goals. Arokodare arrives with 13 goals across the Dutch league and UEFA Conference League this season.
Moses Simon will also be expected to provide experience and leadership in attack as Nigeria seek to take control of the tie.
Tanzania, coached by Argentine Miguel Ángel Gamondi, will look to Mbwana Samatta, Simon Msuva, Selemani Mwalimu and Bernard Kamungo to trouble the Super Eagles.
The return fixture will take place on Tuesday, November 17, at the Amman Stadium in Zanzibar.
