Super Eagles Player Ratings: Nigeria Edge Tanzania 2–1 in Group C Opener

Super Eagles Player Ratings: Nigeria Edge Tanzania 2–1 in Group C Opener

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their Group C campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania on Tuesday, securing a crucial three points in their opening fixture, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Semi Ajayi gave Nigeria the lead in the 36th minute, rising highest to convert an assist from Alex Iwobi. Tanzania responded shortly after the break through Mombowa, who levelled the score in the 50th minute.

The Super Eagles regained control almost immediately, with former African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman restoring Nigeria’s advantage two minutes later. His decisive strike proved enough to seal the win and place Nigeria in a strong position in the group.

Below are the player ratings based on individual performances:

Player Ratings

Stanley Nwabali – 6.5

Made routine saves and could do little about the equaliser. Need to better composed in goal post.

Bright Osayi-Samuel – 5.5

Worked hard down the flank but lacked consistency in his delivery but lacked attack fluency.

Zaidu Sanusi – 5.0

Struggled defensively at times and offered limited attacking threat and weak at marking the opponents.

Semi Ajayi – 8.0

Outstanding at the back and capped his performance with a well-taken opening goal.

Alex Iwobi – 8.5

Pulled the strings in midfield, provided the assist for the first goal and dictated tempo throughout.

Calvin Bassey – 8.5

Dominant defensively, strong in duels and assured in possession.

Akor Adams – 5.5

Worked hard but was largely isolated and struggled to influence the game.

Samuel Chukwueze – 7.5

Lively on the wing, causing problems with his pace and direct running.

Victor Osimhen – 7.5

Led the line effectively, created space for teammates and remained a constant threat.

Substitutes

Paul Onuachu – 5.0

Limited impact after coming on.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 5.5

Showed energy but failed to fully assert himself.

Moses Simon – 6.5

Added pace and width late on, helping Nigeria manage the closing stages.