Nigeria Vs Tanzania: History And Stats Tilt Odds Toward Super Eagles

Nigeria Vs Tanzania: History And Stats Tilt Odds Toward Super Eagles 

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria will look to begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign on a positive note when they face Tanzania in the opening Group C fixture on Tuesday at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Super Eagles go into the encounter as clear favourites, with victory expected to provide early momentum in their quest for a fourth continental title. A positive result on opening day would place Nigeria in a strong position as the group-stage battles unfold.

Tanzania, popularly known as the Taifa Stars, are making just their fourth appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations. Under the guidance of head coach Miguel Gamondi, they are still searching for their first-ever win at the tournament, having recorded three draws and six defeats across their previous outings in 1980, 2019 and 2023.

By contrast, Nigeria’s pedigree at Africa’s premier football competition underlines the disparity in experience. The Super Eagles are competing at the AFCON for the 21st time, with a decorated history that includes three titles, five silver medals, eight bronze finishes, and 104 matches played. Although Egypt remain the most successful nation with seven titles, Nigeria rank among the continent’s most consistent performers over the tournament’s 68-year history.

Head coach Eric Chelle, who recently told CAFonline.com that Nigerians expect their team to win every match, is expected to rely on a strong core of experienced players. Likely starters include goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defenders Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey, wing-backs Bright Osayi-Samuel and Zaidu Sanusi, midfielders Wilfred Ndidi—the team’s new captain—Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi, alongside an attacking trio of Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen.

Nigeria also boast considerable depth, with the likes of Samuel Chukwueze, Paul Onuachu, Raphael Onyedika, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Chidozie Awaziem, Bruno Onyemaechi and Ryan Alebiosu available as options.

Tanzania’s hopes are expected to rest heavily on the experience of captain Mbwana Samatta, who plays for Le Havre in France, and winger Simon Msuva, currently based in Iraq. They will also look to wing-back Mohammed Hussein of Young Africans and creative midfielder Feisal Salum of Azam FC to provide balance and attacking threat.

The fixture evokes memories of a historic encounter more than four decades ago, when Nigeria and Tanzania met in the opening match of the 1980 AFCON in Lagos. Led by Christian Chukwu, who went on to be named Player of the Tournament, Nigeria secured a 3–1 victory and ultimately lifted their maiden AFCON title.

While cold conditions are expected in Fès on Tuesday evening, the Super Eagles remain focused on overcoming both the weather and their opponents as they seek a result that will ignite enthusiasm among Nigerian fans at home and across the diaspora during the 35th AFCON finals.