Tolu Arokodare scored twice as Nigeria’s Super Eagles defeated Tanzania 3-1 in their third Group L fixture of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Alhassan Yusuf gave Nigeria an early lead, finding the net in the second minute to put the hosts in front. However, Tanzania responded through Msanga in the 32nd minute, drawing level and ensuring both sides went into the break with the scores tied at 1-1.
Head coach Eric Chelle made changes at half-time, and the adjustments quickly paid off as Nigeria returned with greater attacking purpose.
Arokodare restored the Super Eagles’ advantage in the 52nd minute before completing his brace eight minutes later to extend Nigeria’s lead to 3-1.
The victory marks an important response from the three-time African champions, who had suffered a 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their previous qualifier after opening their campaign with a 2-1 win over Madagascar.
The result takes Nigeria to six points in Group L, leaving them one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, who drew 1-1 with Madagascar on Thursday.
The Super Eagles will now travel to Zanzibar for the return fixture against Tanzania on Tuesday, November 17, as Chelle’s men look to secure another victory and strengthen their position in the race for qualification.
Tanzania, meanwhile, will be seeking a response on home soil in the reverse encounter.
