Tolu Arokodare delivered an impressive second-half performance, scoring twice as Nigeria defeated Tanzania 3-1 in Uyo on Thursday to revive their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The Super Eagles secured all three points in their Group L Matchday 3 encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, with Arokodare’s introduction proving decisive after an evenly contested first half.
Nigeria made a flying start when Alhassan Yusuf opened the scoring in the second minute, giving the hosts an early advantage and setting the tone for an aggressive start.
However, Tanzania responded in the 28th minute through Msanga, who restored parity for the Taifa Stars and ensured both sides went into the interval level at 1-1.
The Super Eagles returned from the break with renewed attacking purpose and regained the lead seven minutes into the second half.
Arokodare found the net in the 52nd minute, converting an opportunity created by captain Wilfred Ndidi to put Nigeria 2-1 ahead.
The striker struck again in the 60th minute, finishing off Moses Simon’s assist to complete his brace and extend Nigeria’s advantage to two goals.
Arokodare’s double provided the decisive difference as Nigeria maintained control to secure a much-needed victory and end Tanzania’s hopes of taking anything from the encounter.
The result also offered a timely boost to the Super Eagles after their inconsistent start to the qualifying campaign, placing them in a stronger position in the race for a place at the 2027 AFCON.
Nigeria Close Gap on Group L Leaders
The victory takes Nigeria to six points from three matches, leaving the Super Eagles second in Group L, one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, who have seven points.
Tanzania remain on one point, while Madagascar occupy fourth position with two points.
With the group standings tightening, the result keeps Nigeria firmly in contention for automatic qualification as the battle for the two available places at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations gathers momentum.
The Super Eagles will now look to build on their Uyo triumph and maintain their winning momentum in the remaining qualifying fixtures.
