The Super Eagles of Nigeria have got their qualification campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) back on track following a 3-1 victory over Tanzania Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13.

In what was their third match of the qualifying campaign, Tolu Arokodare’s second-half brace proved decisive for the three-time African champions, who needed a response after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their previous outing.

Nigeria made an early statement through Alhassan Yusuf in the second minute, finishing off a move initiated by Ademola Lookman. However, Tanzania found their footing and drew level through Alphonce Msanga in the 32nd minute, leaving both sides on equal terms at the break.

Head coach Éric Chelle responded with two changes at half-time, bringing on Arokodare and Dele Bashiru on for Moses Usor and Akor Adams. The substitutions quickly paid off as Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead seven minutes after the restart, getting on the end of a pass from captain Wilfred Ndidi to put the hosts ahead again.

The Genk forward then doubled his tally in the 60th minute, this time converting a delivery from fellow substitute Usor to give Nigeria a two-goal advantage. Tanzania were unable to find a way back into the contest as the Super Eagles held on to claim all three points.

The result takes Nigeria to six points from three matches in Group L, placing them second behind Guinea-Bissau, who now have seven points following a 1-1 draw with Madagascar.

With Tanzania already assured of a place at the 2027 tournament as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda, the Super Eagles will be looking to build on Friday’s result when both sides meet again in the return fixture on Tuesday, November 17, at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.