Ajayi and Lookman Goals Secure Nigeria’s 59th AFCON Win
Nigeria began their Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 campaign with a hard‑earned 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their opening Group C fixture at the Fès Stadium.
The result marked the Super Eagles’ 59th win in the history of the competition and maintained their perfect record against the Taifa Stars.
Hull City defender Semi Ajayi opened the scoring in the 36th minute, rising highest to head home from an Alex Iwobi assist.
Tanzania responded after the break, with Charles M’Mombwa drawing them level, but Nigeria restored their advantage almost immediately. Just two minutes later, Ademola Lookman curled in a superb finish to make it 2-1.
The Taifa Stars pressed late on and nearly snatched an equaliser, but Ibrahim Hamad slashed a golden chance wide in the closing stages.
Nigeria held firm to secure all three points and extend their 100% record against Tanzania, having previously beaten them 3-1 in their opening group game at the 1980 Cup of Nations on home soil.
The Super Eagles have now scored 148 goals in AFCON history, edging closer to becoming only the second African side after Egypt’s Pharaohs to reach the 160-goal milestone.
Next up for Nigeria is a clash against Tunisia in Fès, while the Carthage Eagles face Uganda later on Tuesday in their own Group C opener.
