Iwobi outstanding as Lookman seals winner in Super Eagles AFCON opener

Alex Iwobi had one of his best games yet in the colors of the Super Eagles as the three-time African champions started their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with  a win.

The Fulham attacking midfielder was without a fault as he dictated the tempo of the game helping the Super Eagles with incisive passes and chance creation.

Nigeria started the game with the better momentum as the Taifa Stars played in a low block.

However, the Super Eagles had a couple of chances to go ahead but were lacklustre in front of goal.

Victor Osimhen came close to giving Nigeria the lead after beating the goalkeeper but his goal-bound shot was cleared before the ball crossed the line.

Hull City defender, Seni Ayayi eventually gave Nigeria the lead from a brilliant header off Alex Iwobi’s cross from an improvised corner-kick.

Samuel Chukwueze went past a couple  of defenders in the box and fired a shot towards goal but Zuberi Foba pulled off a brilliant save.

Nigeria took the slim lead into the break after dominating for most of the first-half.

Victor Osimhen put the ball into the back of the back with a beautiful flick from Akor Adams’ cross from the right flank but his goal was ruled for offside.

Moments later, a lapse in concentration in Super Eagles defense gifted Tanzania a chance into the game as Charles M’Mombewa took advantage of Zaidu Sanusi’s sluggishness to meet Novatus Moroshi’s lofted cross  into the box as the ball landed in the back of the net.

Atalanta forward, Ademola Lookman ensured Tanzania’s joy was short-lived as he powered in a left-footed strike from the edge of the box in the 52nd minute to give Super Eagles the lead again off an Alex Iwobi assist.

The dynamics of the game changed after Lookman’s goal as the Taifa Stars gained more possession of the ball but lacked precision in front of goal.

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles had chances to increase their lead but lacked composure in front of goal as the tie ended 2-1 in favour of Nigeria.

The win extended Nigeria’s winning streak over Tanzania to seven matches in 11 meetings without a loss.