AFCON 2027 qualifying: Gamondi admits ‘big difference’ between Tanzania and Nigeria

Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi says the gap in quality between his side and Nigeria is “very big” after the Taifa Stars were beaten 3-1 by the Super Eagles in Uyo.

The defeat came in Friday’s matchday three fixture in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Nigeria made a fast start when Alhassan Yusuf opened the scoring after two minutes. Tanzania responded through Alphonce Msanga, who levelled in the 32nd minute.

Substitute Tolu Arokodare then restored Nigeria’s lead seven minutes into the second half before completing his brace in the 60th minute to secure three points for the hosts.

The result moved Nigeria to six points, leaving them one point behind Group leaders Guinea-Bissau, who drew 1-1 with Madagascar.

Gamondi praised his players’ effort but said Nigeria’s greater physical strength and quality had proved decisive.

“I want to congratulate my players for the fight, the spirit, how they run, they put in everything inside the pitch,” he told TFF TV.

“We knew we were playing against a big team. We committed one mistake in just two minutes, which was the worst scenario, but we came back to equalise to draw the first half.

“We knew in the first 15 minutes of the second half they would come to press us. We saw the changes they made; they kept their big players on the bench.

“Physically they are very strong and even with that we tried to play, we battled, we created three, four chances as well but honestly it’s the level we have, we don’t have much more than that.

“The gap and quality between us and Nigeria is very big. When you make one mistake they punish you.”

The Argentine said the match would provide Tanzania with a useful indication of the work still required, while also giving credit to Nigeria’s performance.

“We need to give credit to Nigeria. For me they are one of the best teams in Africa and Tanzania needs to continue working because this kind of game gives us something to learn to see our level,” Gamondi added.

“We will keep working and try to do our best. Like I repeat, there’s a big difference, the condition, the players, but we deserve credit.”

Gamondi also called on supporters to continue backing the Taifa Stars. He said Tanzania’s place in the Cup of Nations should be viewed realistically, pointing to their position of 115 in the FIFA ranking.

“Tanzania is already in the Cup of Nations but the people must be realistic. We are like 115 in the FIFA ranking, but we need encouragement because that’s the only way the players can give more by feeling the support of the fans.”