Arokodare brace lifts Nigeria past Tanzania in Afcon qualifier

Nigeria restored momentum in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.

The Super Eagles responded strongly after their earlier 3-0 defeat by Guinea-Bissau, overcoming a first-half setback before securing all three points with two goals after the interval.

Nigeria needed only two minutes to take the lead. Alhassan Yusuf finished a well-worked attack created by Ademola Lookman, giving Eric Chelle’s side an early advantage.

Tanzania, known as the Taifa Stars, levelled in the 32nd minute when Alphonce Msanga found the net. The equaliser ensured the sides went into half-time at 1-1.

Nigeria also lost Lookman to injury shortly before the break, with Moses Simon coming on in his place.

The hosts regained control eight minutes after the restart. Tolu Arokodare produced an excellent finish in the 53rd minute after being set up by Wilfred Ndidi, with Moses Usor playing an important part in the build-up.

Arokodare struck again seven minutes later to complete his brace. The Ajax striker converted another chance created by Usor, putting Nigeria two goals clear and giving the Super Eagles a comfortable advantage.

The result gives Nigeria a significant boost in their efforts to qualify for the tournament, particularly after the disappointment of their defeat by Guinea-Bissau.

Nigeria and Tanzania will meet again on Tuesday, 17 November, in the return fixture at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar. Kick-off is scheduled for 2pm Nigerian time.

Tanzania have already secured automatic qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations because they are one of the tournament’s co-hosts.

That leaves Nigeria competing with Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar for the group’s remaining qualifying place.