Former Nigerian international Ifeanyi Udeze has cautioned the Super Eagles against underestimating Tanzania ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group L double-header.

Nigeria will host the Taifa Stars in the first leg on Friday, November 13, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo before travelling for the return fixture on November 17.

After two matches in the qualifying campaign, the Super Eagles occupy second position in Group L with three points, while Tanzania sit at the bottom of the standings with just one point.

Speaking ahead of Friday’s encounter, Udeze warned that the East Africans would pose a difficult challenge for Nigeria, urging the players to approach the match with the seriousness it deserves.

“It won’t be easy against Tanzania. It will be tough and I hope they will not underrate Tanzania,” Udeze said.

The former defender, who won bronze medals with Nigeria at the 2002 and 2004 AFCON tournaments, also expressed disappointment over the delayed arrival of some Super Eagles players in camp.

Udeze questioned the commitment of the players yet to report for international duty, stressing that their late arrival could affect preparations for an important qualifying fixture.

“What is painful to me is that some players are yet to arrive camp. With such an attitude, how are we sure they are taking this game seriously?

“I just wish them all the best and hope they get the three points,” he added.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will be without key forward Victor Osimhen and winger Samuel Chukwueze, who are both sidelined by injuries.

Hull City defender Semi Ajayi is also a doubt for the encounter after sustaining a knock during last weekend’s Premier League clash with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, where he was substituted.

The injury concerns present an additional challenge for head coach Eric Chelle as he prepares his squad for the two meetings against Tanzania.

With valuable qualifying points at stake, the Super Eagles will be keen to secure victory in Uyo and strengthen their position in Group L, while avoiding the complacency Udeze has warned against.