AFCON 2025: How Lookman's stunner gave Nigeria winning start against Tanzania

Nigeria opened their quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title with a hard-fought victory over Tanzania in wet conditions in Fes on Tuesday, December 23.

Former African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman produced a moment of brilliance, shifting the ball onto his left foot before unleashing an unstoppable strike into the top-right corner to restore Nigeria’s lead and secure all three points for Coach Eric Chelle’s side.

The Super Eagles took the lead in the 36th minute when defender Semi Ajayi glanced home a header from Alex Iwobi’s inviting cross from the right.

Nigeria dominated much of the first half and went close to doubling their advantage before the break, but Samuel Chtrendukwueze’s deflected effort was tipped over the bar by Tanzania goalkeeper Zuberi Foba.

Tanzania had chances of their own, notably with Simon Msuva forcing a save from Stanley Nwabali with a scissor-kick after being set up by Shomari Kapombe, but Nigeria increasingly sought to impose themselves, with Osimhen skewering a shot over after admirable work by Lookman, before the latter sent a free kick over the bar.

Tanzania responded strongly after the restart and drew level in the 50th minute, with Charles M’Mombwa side-footing home a lofted delivery from Novatus Miroshi.

However, the equaliser was short-lived. Just two minutes later, Lookman’s wonder strike sealed Nigeria’s opening AFCON win over Tanzania.

Nigeria will now aim to seal early qualification for the round of 16 when they face Tunisia in their next Group C fixture in Fes on Saturday. Tanzania, meanwhile, travel to Rabat for an all–East Africa clash against Uganda.