Ademola Lookman Striking Left-Foot Winner Secures Nigeria’s AFCON Opening Victory

Ademola Lookman restores Nigeria’s lead with a beautiful left-footed strike to sink Tanzania in Morocco.

africentra media
By
Africentra
Your trusted source for African news, analysis, and perspectives. © Africentra. All rights reserved. Africentra® is a registered Nigeria trademark of Africentra Media Limited.
2 Min Read
Ademola Lookman celebrate after scoring against Tanzania to seal Nigeria's victory 2:1 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Tuesday

FES, MOROCCO: Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their opening Group C match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Tuesday, December 23. Forward Ademola Lookman scored the winning goal in the 52nd minute at the Fez Stadium, immediately following a Tanzanian equalizer.

The Super Eagles controlled the early stages of the match despite wet conditions.

52nd Minute: Ademola Lookman restored the Nigerian lead. The Atalanta forward received the ball from Iwobi at the edge of the penalty area, shifted past his marker, and struck a 20-yard shot with his left foot into the top corner.

36th Minute: Defender Semi Ajayi opened the scoring for Nigeria, heading home a cross from Alex Iwobi following a corner routine.

50th Minute: Tanzania responded shortly after halftime. Charles M’Mombwa volleyed in an equalizer from a Novatus Miroshi delivery, briefly stalling Nigeria’s momentum.

This victory marks a successful start for head coach Éric Chelle in a major tournament. Nigeria entered the competition under pressure after failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup last month. The win maintains Nigeria’s unbeaten record against Tanzania, extending the streak to nine matches.

Official match data confirms Nigeria dominated possession and shots on target. Tanzania’s goalkeeper, Zuberi Foba, recorded several saves to prevent a larger deficit, including a goal-line clearance against Victor Osimhen.

Nigeria sits at the top of Group C alongside Tunisia, who also won their opening fixture. The Super Eagles will travel to Fes for their next match against Tunisia on Saturday, December 27. Fans should watch for official squad fitness updates following the physically demanding match in Morocco.

TAGGED:
Share This Article