AFCON 2025: Tanzania Coach Reveals How They Neutralised Nigeria

AFCON 2025: Tanzania Coach Reveals How They Neutralised Nigeria

Sampson Adedeji

Tanzania head coach Manuel Gàmondi has revealed the tactical approach that helped his side frustrate Nigeria despite their 2-1 defeat at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Although the Taifa Stars ended up on the losing side, their disciplined performance against the Super Eagles surprised many football fans and analysts, with Tanzania putting up a resilient display against one of the tournament favourites.

Speaking after the encounter, the Argentine tactician explained that his team relied on tactical organisation to limit Nigeria’s influence during the game.

 “I think Tanzania played better than many people expected. Nigeria had a lot of possession, but we neutralised them well through our tactical system,” Gàmondi told CAF media.

He admitted that the Super Eagles still created opportunities but stressed that most of the danger came from individual brilliance rather than sustained team dominance.

 “They did create chances, but most of them came from individual quality which is not surprising. Overall, I believe we surprised a lot of people with the quality of our performance against Nigeria today,” he added.

Following the narrow defeat, Tanzania will now shift focus to their remaining group fixtures as they seek to revive their AFCON campaign.

The Taifa Stars are scheduled to face Uganda on Saturday, December 27, before concluding the group stage against Tunisia on Tuesday, December 30.