According to a report by Punch Newspaper on Friday November 13, 2026, Nigeria’s Super Eagles began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3–1 victory over Tanzania in Uyo on Friday, recovering from an early second-half setback to claim all three points.

Substitute Tolu Arokodare scored twice after the break at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, securing the win after the sides went into half-time level at 1–1.

Alhassan Yusuf had given Nigeria an early lead, but Tanzania equalised before the interval through Alphonce Msanga.

Nigeria struck in the second minute when Yusuf finished a move created by Ademola Lookman.

The early goal gave the hosts a promising start, but Tanzania gradually settled into the match and found their way back into the contest.

Msanga restored parity in the 32nd minute, converting an assist from N. Miroshi. The visitors’ response unsettled Nigeria, and both teams had opportunities to take the lead before the break. Neither side added to the score, despite five minutes of stoppage time.

Nigeria made two substitutions at half-time, bringing on Arokodare for Tochukwu Nnadi and Moses Usor for Yusuf. The changes helped the hosts regain momentum, with Arokodare making an immediate impact in attack.

The forward put Nigeria back in front in the 52nd minute, finishing to give the Super Eagles a 2–1 advantage. He struck again eight minutes later, completing his brace and extending the lead to 3–1.

Arokodare’s second-half display proved decisive, giving Nigeria breathing room after Tanzania had threatened to frustrate the hosts.

The Super Eagles managed their advantage from there, seeing out the match to secure victory in their opening qualifying fixture.

The result represented a response from Nigeria after their September defeat to Guinea-Bissau. It also offered an encouraging start to the campaign, with the team taking maximum points in front of home supporters.

Yusuf’s early goal and Arokodare’s two finishes made the difference, while Lookman and Miroshi each contributed an assist for their respective sides.

Tanzania’s equaliser had briefly put the teams on equal footing, but Nigeria’s second-half substitutions shifted the balance.

The 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign continues with further fixtures as teams compete for places at the tournament. Nigeria will look to build on the win, while Tanzania will aim to recover in their next match.