Nigeria’s Super Eagles will begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign on Tuesday with a Group C opener against Tanzania in Fès, Morocco.
The Super Eagles enter as clear favourites, though AFCON opening games are rarely straightforward. After missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, AFCON 2025 has become an opportunity for Nigeria to lift spirits and restore confidence among fans.
Tanzania (the Taifa Stars) are making only their fourth AFCON appearance, with previous outings in 1980, 2019 and 2023 all ending at the group stage. They are yet to record a win at the finals, having drawn three and lost six matches.
Nigeria are appearing at the tournament for the 21st time, have won AFCON three times, finished runners-up five times and placed third on eight occasions.
Coach Eric Chelle is expected to start with Stanley Nwabali in goal, Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey in central defence, with new captain Wilfred Ndidi anchoring the midfield. Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Simon Moses are tipped to lead the attack.
Nigeria are unbeaten in seven meetings with Tanzania, winning four and drawing three. Their only AFCON meeting came in 1980, when Nigeria won 3–1 and eventually lifted the trophy on home soil.
