Super Eagles striker, Tolu Arokodare, scored twice as Nigeria defeated Tanzania 3-1 in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
The victory strengthened Nigeria’s chances of securing a place at the tournament, with the Super Eagles moving to second position in Group L, one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau.
Alhassan Yusuf gave Nigeria an early lead in the second minute, but Tanzania’s Taifa Stars responded through Alphonce Masanga to level the score.
Nigeria’s attacking plans suffered a setback towards the end of the first half when Ademola Lookman was forced off with an injury. Moses Simon replaced the forward as the hosts continued their search for a winning goal.
Head coach Eric Chelle later introduced Moses Usor and Arokodare in the second half, with the substitutions proving decisive.
Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute before combining with Usor to produce the third goal eight minutes later, completing the 3-1 victory for the Super Eagles.
Nigeria’s win came after Guinea-Bissau were held to a 1-1 draw by Madagascar, leaving the Super Eagles within one point of the group leaders after matchday three.
The two teams will meet again in Tanzania in four days for the return fixture, with Nigeria seeking another victory to strengthen their qualification hopes.
A win in the return leg would take Nigeria to nine points from four matches, leaving them in a strong position ahead of their final two group fixtures.
