The Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated Tanzania 3-1 in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday, with Tolu Arokodare scoring twice to inspire the hosts to victory.
Nigeria took an early lead through Alhassan Yusuf, who opened the scoring in the second minute after being set up by Ademola Lookman.
However, Tanzania fought back and restored parity in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, who converted an assist from N. Miroshi to make it 1-1.
Both sides created opportunities before the break, but neither could find another goal as the first half ended level.
Nigeria returned from the interval with renewed attacking intent, introducing Arokodare for Tochukwu Nnadi and Moses Usor for Yusuf.
The changes paid off almost immediately as Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute, finishing a pass from captain Wilfred Ndidi to put the Super Eagles ahead 2-1.
The forward struck again eight minutes later, extending Nigeria’s advantage to 3-1 after receiving a pass from fellow substitute Usor.
Tanzania attempted to reduce the deficit through a series of attacking moves and substitutions, but Nigeria’s defence held firm to protect the two-goal lead until the final whistle.
The victory gives Nigeria six points in Group L, moving them into second position behind Guinea-Bissau, who lead the standings with seven points.
Madagascar occupy third place with two points, while Tanzania remain bottom with one point. Tanzania, however, have already secured automatic qualification for the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda.
Nigeria went into Friday’s encounter seeking a response after losing 3-0 to Guinea-Bissau in September. They had earlier opened their qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar.
The Super Eagles were without striker Victor Osimhen, who is recovering from knee surgery, and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye.
Nigeria recorded 65 per cent possession and seven shots on target from 13 attempts, while Tanzania managed two shots on target from eight attempts.
The Super Eagles will face Tanzania again in the return fixture scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, in Zanzibar.
