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By Joe Apu
Nigeria will begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign against Tanzania on Tuesday as the two sides clash in the opening Group C fixture of the 35th edition of the tournament, with the Super Eagles widely tipped to secure all three points.
Tanzania, known as the Taifa Stars and coached by Miguel Gamondi, are making only their fourth appearance at AFCON. Their previous outings in 1980, 2019 and 2023 all ended at the group stage, and they are still searching for a first-ever win at the tournament after recording three draws and six defeats in nine matches.
In contrast, Nigeria arrive with a rich AFCON pedigree. The Super Eagles have featured in 20 previous editions, winning the title three times, finishing runners-up on five occasions and claiming bronze medals eight times. They have played 104 AFCON matches and remain one of the most successful teams in the competition’s history.
Although Egypt hold the record with seven titles, followed by Cameroon with five and Ghana with four, Nigeria is regarded as one of the tournament’s most consistent performers over its 68-year history.
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Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to rely on a strong starting line-up at the 35,000-capacity Complexe Sportif de Fès. Key players likely to feature include goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defenders Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey, wing-backs Bright Osayi-Samuel and Zaidu Sanusi, midfielders Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi, and an attacking trio of Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen.
Nigeria also boasts depth on the bench, with options such as Samuel Chukwueze, Paul Onuachu, Raphael Onyedika and Chidozie Awaziem available.
Tanzania are expected to build their approach around captain Mbwana Samatta, who plays for Le Havre in France, and experienced winger Simon Msuva. Other key players include wing-back Mohammed Hussein of Young Africans and midfielder Feisal Salum of Azam FC.
The encounter revives memories of a historic meeting between the two sides in 1980, when Nigeria defeated Tanzania 3–1 in the opening match of the AFCON in Lagos, a tournament the Super Eagles went on to win for the first time.
Despite cold conditions expected in Fès, Nigeria will be aiming to make a strong start and ignite enthusiasm among fans at home and abroad as they chase continental glory once again.
