Super Eagles begin their quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on Tuesday, facing Tanzania in a Group C opener at the Complexe Sportif de Fès that coach Eric Chelle has described as a “must-win” for the continental giants.
The three-time champions arrive in Morocco under a cloud of recent disappointment, having finished as runners-up in the previous edition and suffered a shock failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. For the West African powerhouse, the tournament in Morocco represents a critical opportunity for national redemption.
”Ever since I took this job, I am only focused on this game,” Chelle told reporters during a pre-match press conference on Monday. “This is the most important game right now. We are very prepared to win.”
Osimhen Leads the Line
Nigeria will rely heavily on a star-studded attack spearheaded by Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen and Europa League final hero Ademola Lookman. Despite the retirement of veteran defender William Troost-Ekong and injuries to Ola Aina, the squad remains formidable.
Chelle emphasized the need for internal focus to overcome the pressure of past failures. “We need to focus on ourselves and take out the outside noise,” he added. “Of course, the World Cup miss is painful, but we are here to work.”
Tanzania’s ‘David vs. Goliath’ Dream
Ranked 112th in the world—74 places below their opponents—Tanzania enters the match as clear underdogs. However, the “Taifa Stars” are dreaming of an upset that would resonate across the continent.
Argentine coach Miguel Gamondi acknowledged the gulf in quality but insisted his side would not be intimidated. “Maybe Nigeria have 99 percent [chance], but you never know,” Gamondi said. “Beating Nigeria would feel like winning the AFCON for us.”
The Tanzanian strategy is expected to focus on neutralizing Nigeria’s individual brilliance. “We will try to neutralize the quality of Osimhen, but it’s not only him,” Gamondi noted. “We need to be tactically disciplined; there should not be any room for mistakes.”
Historical Edge
Statistically, the odds favor Nigeria. The Super Eagles are undefeated in their previous eight meetings with Tanzania, including a 3-1 victory in the opening game of the 1980 tournament—the year Nigeria claimed its first continental crown.
Tanzania, appearing in their second consecutive AFCON for the first time in history, are searching for their first-ever win in the competition’s group stage after nine attempts.
Kick-off is scheduled for 17:30 GMT
