Nigeria open their AFCON 2025 campaign on Tuesday night knowing that a fast start is essential after recent continental disappointment. The Super Eagles arrive in Morocco determined to push beyond last year’s final heartbreak and end a long wait for an eighth African crown.
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On paper, Nigeria boast one of the tournament’s deepest squads. Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman lead a powerful attack, while Wilfred Ndidi anchors midfield with authority and experience. That quality makes Nigeria firm favourites, but recent form offers a note of caution. The Super Eagles have stumbled in big moments over the past year and remain vulnerable defensively, with just one clean sheet in their last five matches.
Tanzania enter as clear underdogs but with nothing to lose. The Taifa Stars have never beaten Nigeria in a competitive fixture and have failed to progress beyond the group stage in all four previous AFCON appearances.
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However, the return of Simon Msuva alongside Mbwana Samatta gives them attacking belief, and this tournament also serves as a statement opportunity ahead of co-hosting AFCON 2027.
Nigeria’s experience and firepower should tell, but Tanzania’s resilience suggests this opener may be tighter than expected.
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