Nigeria warned to watch Tanzania’s five key threats in AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Nigeria face Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in a two-match Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie during the current international window, with five players identified as potential dangers to the Super Eagles.

Although Nigeria have a stronger record and greater experience in African football, Miguel Gamondi’s Tanzania side possess pace, creativity and the ability to counter-attack effectively. Their understanding in attack could make the double-header a difficult test for the three-time African champions.

These are the Tanzania players Nigeria will need to monitor closely.

Novatus Miroshi – Goztepe, Turkey

Novatus Miroshi is one of Tanzania’s most influential players, offering a threat in both defence and attack from left-back.

The 24-year-old combines energy with the ability to carry the ball forward, qualities that could trouble Nigeria if he is allowed to advance into attacking areas.

Miroshi has also made an impressive start to the season in the Turkish Super Lig with Goztepe, scoring twice in eight league appearances. For Tanzania, he has three goals from 24 international matches.

Feisal Salum – Azam FC, Tanzania

Feisal Salum is a key figure in Tanzania’s midfield. Known as Fei Toto, the 28-year-old helps control attacking transitions, plays incisive passes and creates opportunities for his team-mates.

He has represented the Taifa Stars at the 2019, 2023 and 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Salum was central to Tanzania’s historic run at AFCON 2025. His decisive goal against Tunisia helped the East African side reach the knockout stages for the first time, after they qualified as one of the best third-placed teams.

With 60 international caps, his experience and creativity will be important against a highly fancied Nigeria side.

Simon Msuva – Newroz SC, Iraq

Simon Msuva remains Tanzania’s main attacking threat. The experienced striker uses intelligent movement and pace to find space behind defensive lines and can be dangerous around the penalty area.

Nigeria’s defenders will have to prevent him from receiving the ball in advanced positions and avoid allowing him to run in behind them.

Msuva faced the Super Eagles in the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, when Tanzania lost 2–1 and he made his 100th international appearance.

He has scored 25 goals in 105 matches for his country.

Bernard Kamungo – FC Dallas, USA

Bernard Kamungo gives Tanzania pace and unpredictability in wide areas. His willingness to take on defenders and stretch the opposition back line makes him a threat during quick attacks.

Nigeria’s full-backs and central defenders will need to maintain their shape, particularly when spaces open behind the defence, where Kamungo can use his speed to cause problems.

Kibu Denis – Al Nasr, Libya

Kibu Denis offers versatility and directness on the wing. His pace, creativity and ability to run at defenders could test Nigeria’s defensive flanks.

He can also deliver dangerous balls into the penalty area, meaning the Super Eagles must avoid giving him room to operate.

The 27-year-old has featured regularly for the Taifa Stars since Miguel Gamondi became head coach in 2025.