Previewing the key dangers in Tanzania’s Taifa Stars before kick-off in Fès.
The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 (AFCON 2025) opens with a compelling Group C clash as Nigeria’s Super Eagles face Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in Fès, Morocco. The Super Eagles arrive with the ambition of winning their fourth AFCON title and refusing to be caught cold in the tournament’s first game. Meanwhile, Tanzania enters with belief, continuity and a handful of players capable of unsettling Nigeria’s ambitions if not properly contained.
While Nigeria boasting a squad with stars like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze are favourites to win, the Taifa Stars boast experienced operators capable of reshaping the narrative. Here are the three key Tanzania threats the Super Eagles must neutralise if they are to start AFCON 2025 with a statement victory.
1. Mbwana Samatta — The Veteran Captain and Lead Goal Threat
At the heart of Tanzania’s attacking intent is Mbwana Samatta, the captain and most recognisable figure in the Taifa Stars squad. Currently plying his trade with Le Havre in France’s Ligue 1, Samatta brings a wealth of experience including spells in the Premier League with Aston Villa and remains one of Tanzania’s most dangerous finishers.
Samatta’s influence isn’t limited to scoring. His ability to harry defenders, link play intelligently, and attract markers makes him a dual threat who can both score and create space for colleagues. For Nigeria’s back line, complacency against Samatta could prove costly, especially in transitional situations where his movement could disrupt defensive shape.
2. Simon Msuva — Tanzania’s Prolific Goal Hunter with a Point to Prove
Another veteran danger man is Simon Msuva, a forward who has been a consistent scorer for the Taifa Stars. With nearly 100 caps and over 24 goals in international football, Msuva has become a talismanic presence for Tanzania.
Msuva threatens defenders with his direct runs and instinctive positioning. He could capitalise on any momentary lapses in concentration from Nigeria’s full-backs or defensive midfielders. Entering the match potentially on the cusp of becoming Tanzania’s all-time top scorer, Msuva will be motivated not just by chance but by personal and national milestone ambitions.
3. Feisal Salum — Midfield Creator and Engine
While Samatta and Msuva headline Tanzania’s frontline threats, Feisal Salum provides the clever creativity and transitional spark in midfield that could trouble Nigeria. A technically gifted playmaker, Salum has shown the ability to combine pressing intensity with incisive passing making him a lynchpin in Tanzania’s offensive rhythm.
Salum’s unpredictability and vision pose a distinct challenge to Nigeria’s midfield balance. If allowed time between the lines or afforded space to pick passes, he could connect moves that unlock Nigeria’s shape especially during phases where the Super Eagles look to dominate possession and control tempo.
Although Tanzania have yet to record a win against Nigeria at AFCON, history counts for little once the ball is kicked. Nigeria boasts an impressive AFCON pedigree unbeaten in several opening matches and regular deep runs in the tournament — but the Super Eagles must match intensity with tactical discipline to avoid being surprised by an organised and motivated Tanzanian side.
The Super Eagles will aim to dictate early proceedings, using their attacking talent to unsettle the opposition while maintaining defensive stability. Opposing them, Tanzania will look to extract value from moments of pressure and set-piece scenarios areas where experience and composure from their key threats will be crucial.
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