Lookman, Iwobi lift Nigeria past Tanzania

Nigeria opened AFCON 2025 with a gritty 2-1 win over Tanzania on Tuesday night in Fes, riding on Ademola Lookman’s winner and a commanding midfield display from Alex Iwobi. Semi Ajayi headed in from an Iwobi delivery before Tanzania levelled, but Lookman struck back with a sharp finish to settle a tense Group C opener.

ESPN noted Nigeria’s attack “created a multitude of chances,” yet warned their “defensive fragility was on full display” and Tanzania “should have had more than one goal.” Victor Osimhen endured an off day, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was criticised for being slow to react on the equaliser, with the report calling it “the Nwabali problem.”

Iwobi, who set up both goals, was hailed as the true standout as Nigeria banked three early points and moved on with plenty to fix.