Ajax striker scores twice after coming off the bench as Nigeria revive their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign with an important victory in Uyo.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles returned to winning ways in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after defeating Tanzania 3-1 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.
Substitute Tolu Arokodare was the standout performer, scoring twice in the second half to help Éric Chelle’s men secure three important points after their disappointing 3-0 defeat away to Guinea-Bissau in September.
The result moves Nigeria to six points in Group L, leaving them just one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, according to the standings outlined in the supplied match report.
The Super Eagles knew they needed a positive response in front of their home supporters, and they made an encouraging start to the contest.
Yusuf gives Nigeria an early advantage
Nigeria wasted little time in taking control, with Alhassan Yusuf opening the scoring inside the first two minutes.
The early goal provided the hosts with the perfect start and raised hopes of a comfortable evening for the home side. However, Tanzania gradually settled into the contest and found a way back into the game.
The visitors drew level in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, bringing the score to 1-1 and putting pressure back on the Super Eagles.
Nigeria attempted to restore their advantage before the interval but could not find another breakthrough. Both teams went into the dressing room with the scores level.
Arokodare makes the difference after the break
Chelle’s second-half decisions proved decisive as Nigeria found the attacking spark they needed.
Arokodare came off the bench and quickly made his presence felt, restoring Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute.
The forward was not finished. Just eight minutes later, he found the net again to complete his brace and give the Super Eagles a commanding 3-1 advantage.
His contribution gave Nigeria the breathing space they needed and underlined the importance of having effective attacking options available from the bench.
With the two-goal cushion established, the Super Eagles focused on protecting their advantage during the closing stages.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was introduced for Akor Adams as Chelle made further adjustments, while Tanzania also turned to their substitutes in an attempt to change the direction of the match.
However, the visitors could not find a way past Nigeria’s defence, allowing the hosts to see out the contest and claim all three points.
Nigeria face another important test in Zanzibar
The victory provides a timely boost for Nigeria as they continue their pursuit of a place at the 2027 AFCON, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Tanzania are already guaranteed a place at the tournament as one of the co-hosts. Consequently, Nigeria’s main qualification battle in Group L is against Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar for the remaining available place.
The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to the return meeting with Tanzania, scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, in Zanzibar.
Another positive result would strengthen Nigeria’s position and give Chelle’s team greater confidence heading into the remaining stages of the AFCON 2027 qualifiers.
For the Super Eagles, the immediate task is to build on the Uyo victory and maintain their momentum. Arokodare’s impressive contribution will also provide the coaching staff with another encouraging attacking option as Nigeria pursue their qualification ambition.