Nigeria’s Super Eagles strengthened their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Tanzania 3-1 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, 2026.
Substitute Tolu Arokodare scored twice within eight minutes in the second half to secure a crucial victory for Eric Chelle’s side.
The result moved Nigeria to second place in Group L with six points from three matches, one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau.
According to the Nigeria Football Federation’s official match report, Arokodare’s goals helped the Super Eagles recover from their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their previous qualifying match.
Nigeria Takes Early Lead Against Tanzania
The Super Eagles made an impressive start, taking the lead just two minutes into the encounter through midfielder Alhassan Yusuf.
The opening goal followed a swift attacking move, with Ademola Lookman providing the decisive pass for Yusuf to finish inside the penalty area.
Nigeria dominated the early stages and created opportunities to extend their advantage as Tanzania struggled to contain the hosts’ attacking pressure.
However, Tanzania gradually recovered and equalised in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga.
The midfielder capitalised on a mistake in Nigeria’s midfield after Novatus Miroshi won possession and created the opportunity.
The equaliser brought the visitors back into contention and increased the pressure on Nigeria, who needed a positive result to improve their qualification chances.
Both teams entered halftime level at 1-1 despite Nigeria’s promising start.
Arokodare Scores Twice to Secure Victory
Head coach Eric Chelle responded to the first-half difficulties by making two substitutions at the interval.
Tolu Arokodare replaced Tochukwu Nnadi, while Moses Usor came on for goalscorer Alhassan Yusuf.
The changes immediately strengthened Nigeria’s attacking play.
In the 52nd minute, Arokodare restored the Super Eagles’ lead with a clever backheel finish after receiving a pass from captain Wilfred Ndidi.
Eight minutes later, the striker completed his brace in the 60th minute, converting a delivery from fellow substitute Moses Usor.
The goal extended Nigeria’s advantage to 3-1 and put the hosts firmly in control.
Arokodare almost completed a hat-trick later in the match but was denied by Tanzania goalkeeper Aishi Manula during a one-on-one opportunity.
His two goals ultimately proved decisive as Nigeria secured all three points.
Super Eagles Face Injury Concerns
Despite the victory, Nigeria experienced injury concerns during the encounter.
Ademola Lookman, who assisted the opening goal, was forced off before halftime after suffering a suspected hamstring problem.
He was replaced by Moses Simon.
Defender Benjamin Fredrick was also stretchered off during the game, adding to the concerns facing the Super Eagles’ technical crew.
Nigeria had already entered the match without star striker Victor Osimhen, who was unavailable following knee surgery.
The team’s ability to score three goals without Osimhen provided a boost to Chelle’s attacking options.
Arokodare, who started the encounter on the bench, delivered a decisive performance and strengthened his case for greater involvement in upcoming international matches.
Tanzania Fails to Complete Comeback
Tanzania attempted to respond after falling behind, with head coach Miguel Gamondi introducing fresh players during the second half.
However, Nigeria maintained their advantage and continued to threaten the visitors’ defence.
Akor Adams and Moses Usor both had opportunities to increase the scoreline, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made an important late save to deny Tanzania another goal.
The Super Eagles protected their two-goal advantage until the final whistle, securing their second victory of the qualification campaign.
Nigeria Moves Closer to Group L Leaders
The victory improved Nigeria’s position in Group L and revived the team’s campaign after its defeat to Guinea-Bissau.
Nigeria now have six points from three matches, while Guinea-Bissau lead the group with seven points.
Madagascar occupy third place with two points, while Tanzania remain bottom with one point.
Guinea-Bissau were held to a 1-1 draw by Madagascar in their latest qualifying fixture, allowing Nigeria to reduce the gap at the top of the standings.
Tanzania have already secured automatic qualification for the 2027 tournament as one of the co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda.
Consequently, Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar are competing for the remaining qualification opportunity from the group.
The Super Eagles will need to maintain their momentum in their remaining fixtures to strengthen their chances of reaching the continental tournament.
Super Eagles to Face Tanzania Again
Nigeria will face Tanzania in the return fixture at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar on Tuesday, November 17, 2026.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 2 p.m. Nigerian time.
Another victory would increase Nigeria’s points tally and strengthen their position in the race for qualification.
Chelle will also be monitoring the fitness of injured players before selecting his squad for the return encounter.
With Arokodare finding his scoring form and the Super Eagles returning to winning ways, Nigeria will travel to Zanzibar seeking another important result in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign.
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