Nigeria’s Super Eagles defeated Tanzania 3-1 in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday. The result moves Nigeria to six points in Group L, placing them one point behind group leaders Guinea-Bissau. Substitute Tolu Arokodare scored twice in the second half to secure the win after the teams were level at 1-1. Alhassan Yusuf opened the scoring in the second minute, while Alphonce Msanga equalized for Tanzania in the 32nd minute. According to Punch, Arokodare’s goals were his first brace for the national team.
The match was significantly affected by an injury to Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman. Punch reports that a scan confirmed Lookman suffered a sprain in his knee ligament. He was forced off in the 44th minute after providing the assist for Yusuf’s opener. Premium Times confirms that team media officer Promise Efoghe announced Lookman is ruled out of the return fixture in Zanzibar. This injury also raises concerns for his club, Atlético Madrid, regarding his availability for upcoming LaLiga and Champions League matches.
Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle stressed the importance of the upcoming second leg. He told Punch that the 3-1 victory counts for little unless it is repeated in Zanzibar. Chelle expressed frustration with the equalizer, stating that his side handed Tanzania a way back into the game. He insisted the team must focus on winning the next match. Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick, who suffered cramps during the Uyo match, have reportedly recovered, according to Punch.
Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi admitted Nigeria deserved the win. He told Punch that his team started in the worst scenario by conceding early. Gamondi attributed some struggles to travel fatigue and difficult conditions. He noted that while his players are proud, the experience provides a learning opportunity. Tanzania, as co-hosts of the 2027 tournament, are already qualified. Arokodare told Punch that his job is to score goals and that strikers must always bring their best performance. The return leg is scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.