AFCON 2025
In Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a vital 3-1 victory over Tanzania in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations Group L qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Alhassan Yusuf opened the scoring in the second minute, Alphonce Msanga equalised for the visitors, and substitute Tolu Arokodare scored twice in the second half to seal the win. The result moved Nigeria to six points, one behind group leaders Guinea-Bissau.
Here is how the Super Eagles players rated in the match.
Goalkeeper
Stanley Nwabali – 6.5/10
Had a relatively quiet afternoon with limited work to do. Could do little about Tanzania’s well-worked equaliser but distributed the ball cleanly and dealt competently with the few threats that came his way.
Defence
Abdullahi Bewene – 7/10
Made a solid competitive start. Showed attacking intent with forward runs while remaining disciplined defensively. Contributed positively on both sides of the ball.
Benjamin Fredrick – 6.5/10
Partnered Calvin Bassey in central defence and justified his selection with a committed, largely assured display. Handled aerial challenges well.
Calvin Bassey – 6.5/10
Steady rather than spectacular. Organised the back line effectively and helped limit Tanzania’s clear-cut chances after the early scare.
Ola Aina – 6.5/10
Started slowly but improved as the game progressed. Provided width and energy, particularly in the second half before being replaced late on.
Midfield
Wilfred Ndidi (c) – 7.5/10
Recovered well after being dispossessed in the build-up to Tanzania’s equaliser. Delivered the key assist for Arokodare’s first goal and controlled large parts of the midfield thereafter. A strong captain’s performance overall.
Alhassan Yusuf – 7/10
Scored the early opener with a composed finish from Lookman’s assist. Worked hard but was withdrawn at half-time as Chelle reshaped the attack.
Alex Iwobi – 6.5/10
Linked play effectively and kept Nigeria ticking in possession. A solid, industrious display without being at his absolute creative peak.
Tochukwu Nnadi – 5.5/10
Struggled to impose himself in the first half and was replaced at the interval as part of the tactical switch that unlocked the game.
Attack
Ademola Lookman – 6.5/10
Provided the assist for Yusuf’s early goal and looked lively before being forced off with an injury late in the first half. His influence was cut short.
Akor Adams – 6/10
Led the line with effort and physical presence but found clear openings hard to come by. Worked hard without finding the net.
Substitutes
Tolu Arokodare – 9/10
The clear standout. Introduced at half-time and transformed the contest, scoring in the 52nd and 60th minutes. Clinical, mobile and decisive. A strong case for more starting opportunities in Osimhen’s absence.
Moses Usor – 7.5/10
Came on at the break and immediately added pace and directness. Created the third goal for Arokodare and stretched Tanzania’s defence throughout the second half.
Moses Simon – 6.5/10
Replaced the injured Lookman and provided energy on the flank. Helped maintain Nigeria’s attacking threat after the interval.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 6/10
Came on late to help manage the game and saw out the closing stages without drama.
