Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has sounded an early warning to his squad, insisting Nigeria must raise their standards quickly at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, despite opening their campaign with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania in Fez.
Nigeria kicked off their Group C campaign with all three points at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, but the result came after a demanding contest that exposed areas for improvement. Much like their opening match at the 1980 AFCON — when they beat Tanzania 3–1 en route to their first title — the Super Eagles started on a positive note, though this time the margin was slimmer and the test tougher.
The breakthrough arrived in the 36th minute when defender Semi Ajayi rose highest to meet an Alex Iwobi delivery, sending a powerful header into the far corner. It was a deserved reward for Nigeria’s dominance before the interval and marked Ajayi’s second goal in international colours.
Tanzania, however, refused to fade away. Shortly after the restart, Charles M’Mombwa capitalised on a momentary lapse in Nigeria’s defence to bring the Taifa Stars level and inject fresh tension into the contest. The response from the Super Eagles was immediate, as Ademola Lookman unleashed a superb long-range effort to restore Nigeria’s advantage.
The remainder of the match required grit and composure. Tanzania pushed aggressively for another equaliser, forcing Nigeria to defend deep at times and rely on their organisation and experience to protect the lead until the final whistle.
Despite securing the win, Chelle was far from complacent in his assessment.
“We need to carefully review this match,” the Franco-Malian coach said. “In the first half, we did many positive things and created several chances. But in the second half, we allowed Tanzania back into the game because of two mistakes. At AFCON, progress depends on improving with each match.”
He added that while the points were welcome, the performance highlighted the need for growth as the tournament unfolds.
Ajayi’s contribution went well beyond his opening goal. The 31-year-old centre-back delivered a commanding performance at both ends of the pitch, winning all his aerial and ground duels and helping Nigeria withstand late pressure. His efforts earned him the CAF Man of the Match award.
Reflecting on the game, Ajayi described the moment as special.
“Scoring for your country is always a great feeling, especially when it helps the team start the tournament well,” he said. “I’m very happy with the result, but we know we can still do better.”
He emphasized that the squad is already focused on sharpening their game.
“We have to be more clinical and learn how to finish teams off. That’s something we’ll be working on in training. Everyone has a role to play — not just the forwards. Defenders and midfielders must also contribute if we want to go far.”
Nigeria, who finished runners-up at the previous AFCON after losing the final to hosts Ivory Coast, are aiming to capture a fourth continental crown, having previously triumphed in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
Next up is a crucial clash against Tunisia, a challenge Chelle believes will require a significant step forward.
“Tunisia are a strong side,” he said. “We must be better defensively and more dynamic, both with and without the ball. I’m proud of the players for this win, but there’s still a lot of work ahead.”
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The Super Eagles may have started with victory, but the message from their coach is clear: improvement is non-negotiable if Nigeria are to reach the summit of African football once again.
