Arokodare Brace Fires Super Eagles Past Tanzania as Nigeria Revive AFCON Campaign

Nigeria’s Super Eagles revived their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday, easing the pressure following their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau.Super Eagles Merchandise

Tottenham Hotspur striker Tolu Arokodare emerged as Nigeria’s match-winner, scoring twice in the second half after Alhassan Yusuf had given the hosts an early advantage.

The Super Eagles made a flying start, taking the lead just two minutes into the encounter when Yusuf finished off a well-timed pass from Ademola Lookman to give the home supporters an early reason to celebrate.

Nigeria dominated the opening exchanges, controlling possession and pushing Tanzania deep into their half in search of a second goal.

However, against the run of play, the visitors drew level in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, who capitalised on an opportunity to beat the Nigerian defence and restore parity.

Despite Nigeria’s early dominance, both teams went into the interval locked at 1-1, leaving head coach Éric Chelle with the task of finding a way to restore his side’s advantage.

Chelle responded at the restart by introducing Arokodare and Moses Usor for Yusuf and Tochukwu Nnadi, and the changes immediately transformed Nigeria’s attacking threat.

The Super Eagles regained the lead in the 52nd minute when Arokodare expertly turned in a cross from captain Wilfred Ndidi with a backheel finish that left the Tanzanian goalkeeper helpless. Super Eagles Merchandise

The striker struck again eight minutes later, completing his brace with a low finish after connecting with a delivery from substitute Usor to stretch Nigeria’s advantage to 3-1.

The two quick goals effectively took the sting out of Tanzania’s challenge, with coach Miguel Gamondi making changes in an attempt to revive his team’s fortunes.

However, the visitors struggled to find a way back as Nigeria managed the remainder of the contest to secure a much-needed victory. Super Eagles Merchandise

The result provides a timely boost for Chelle’s men, who had come under pressure following their damaging defeat in Guinea-Bissau.

Nigeria move to six points from their qualifying matches and occupy second position in Group L, one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, who have seven points.

The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to the return fixture against Tanzania as they seek to consolidate their position and strengthen their bid for qualification for the 2027 AFCON in East Africa.