Nigeria 3-1 Tanzania: Arokodare double puts Super Eagles’ Afcon campaign back on course

Nigeria revived their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Tanzania in Uyo, after a dominant second-half display secured all three points for the Super Eagles.

Alhassan Yusuf put Nigeria ahead early after the interval, but Tanzania levelled when Alphonce Msanga took advantage of an error by Wilfred Ndidi.

Tolu Arokodare then decided the contest with two second-half goals, completing a convincing win for Eric Chelle’s side.

Lookman forced off before half-time

Nigeria suffered a concern before the break when Ademola Lookman appeared to sustain a hamstring injury.

The Atletico Madrid forward fell inside Tanzania’s penalty area without any contact and immediately held the back of his thigh, indicating that he was unable to continue.

He was substituted before half-time, with Moses Simon replacing him and joining Akor Adams in attack.

Nigeria take control after the interval

The first half was closely contested and ended 1-1, but Nigeria were a different side after the restart.

Chelle responded with a double change, bringing on Arokodare and Moses Usor as he sought to give the Super Eagles greater attacking threat.

The substitutions helped Nigeria establish control. They added two more goals in the second half and finished the match with a comfortable margin over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars.

Arokodare ends international scoring drought

Arokodare made an immediate impact after entering the game, building on his strong form at club level with an excellent performance for Nigeria.

The Ajax forward scored twice to settle the match and help the Super Eagles secure their first win of the qualifying campaign.

The brace also ended his wait for a goal at international level, providing a significant personal boost after his introduction in the second half.

Injury blow for Tanzania defender Hamad

Tanzania defender Ibrahim Hamad was unable to complete the match after suffering an injury in the second half.

The 29-year-old had played an important role before the interval, helping to limit Nigeria’s attacking threat and particularly restricting Akor Adams.

Hamad was eventually replaced by Charles M’Mombwa, bringing an end to an otherwise effective performance.

Bewene makes strong case at right-back

Abdullahi Bewene justified his selection ahead of Bright Osayi-Samuel with a composed display at right-back.

The young defender provided energy in attack while maintaining his defensive discipline, contributing effectively at both ends of the pitch.

His performance will strengthen his claim for a regular place in the national team as he seeks to establish himself under Chelle.