Nigeria opened their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a narrow 2–1 win over Tanzania in a closely contested match. The Super Eagles took an early lead through defender Semi Ajayi’s powerful first-half header. Tanzania, however, mounted a spirited comeback after halftime, with Charles M’Mombwa leveling the score in the 50th minute. The Taifa Stars briefly threatened an upset. However, Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman restored the lead just two minutes later with a brilliant individual effort, cutting inside and firing into the top-right corner. This decisive moment secured three vital points for Eric Chelle’s side, who controlled much of the match despite a resilient Tanzanian defense. The win sets a positive tone for Nigeria’s quest to win the tournament for the first time since 2013 and to overcome the recent disappointment of missing the World Cup.
BBC