The Super Eagles of Nigeria returned to winning ways in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Nigeria made a bright start to the encounter, taking the lead in the third minute through Alhassan Yusuf, who put the hosts ahead with an early finish.
Tanzania responded strongly and drew level in the 36th minute after Wilfred Ndidi lost possession in midfield, allowing Msanga to capitalise on Nigeria’s defensive lapse and make it 1-1.
The Super Eagles suffered another setback before half-time when Ademola Lookman picked up an injury and was replaced by Moses Simon.
Head coach Eric Chelle made two changes at the start of the second half, introducing Tolu Arokodare and Chidera Usor for Yusuf and Raphael Onyedika.
The substitutions proved effective as Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute with a well-taken flicked finish.
The striker doubled his tally eight minutes later, converting a move created by fellow substitute Chidera Usor to extend Nigeria’s advantage to 3-1.
Nigeria maintained its two-goal lead in the closing stages, with Arokodare coming close to completing his hat-trick before the final whistle.
The victory gives the Super Eagles a positive boost in their bid to secure qualification for the 2027 AFCON.