Nigeria’s Super Eagles Kick Off AFCON Campaign Against Tanzania

Nigeria’s Super Eagles begin their pursuit of a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title today, facing Tanzania’s Taifa Stars at the Fez Stadium in Fez, Morocco.

The Super Eagles enter the tournament after a disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, having fallen to the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the final of the African play-offs, missing out on the FIFA Play-Off Tournament and a second consecutive World Cup.

Under head coach Éric Chelle, the Super Eagles went unbeaten in all six of their group stage World Cup qualifiers in 2025, managing four wins and one draw before a 4-1 victory over Gabon in the continental play-off semifinals. They went down to DR Congo in dramatic fashion, losing 4-3 on penalties after drawing 1-1 after extra time.

With a squad boasting numerous internationally-based talents, Nigeria will be eager to reassert their dominance on the continent and add another AFCON trophy to their cabinet. While Nigeria holds a significant place in the tournament’s 68-year history, Egypt (seven titles), Cameroon (five), and Ghana (four) have secured more victories.

Speaking to CAFonline.com, Coach Chelle acknowledged the high expectations from Nigerian fans for their team to win every match, and will undoubtedly be aiming for a victory and a clean sheet against the Taifa Stars.

Tanzania, managed by Miguel Gamondi, are making only their fourth appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations, having exited at the group stage in 1980, 2019, and 2023. They are still searching for their maiden win in Africa’s premier football championship, with a record of three draws and six losses from their previous nine encounters.

The two nations have met once before at the continental showpiece. In the 1980 AFCON, the Super Eagles commenced their campaign with a 3–1 victory over the Taifa Stars in Lagos. Overall, Nigeria has won four and drawn three of their seven previous meetings.

Leading Nigeria’s attack will be the prolific Victor Osimhen. The 26-year-old striker finished the 2024/25 season as the top scorer in the Turkish Süper Lig and has already netted six goals in 12 league games this 2025/26 campaign. Osimhen has also contributed to six goals in his last four appearances for Nigeria and is a strong contender for the tournament’s Golden Boot award.