Nigeria's Super Eagles returned to winning ways with a 3-1 victory over Tanzania in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday. The win eased the pain of a 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in September, lifting Nigeria to six points in Group L, one behind leaders Guinea-Bissau on seven.

Alhassan Yusuf gave the hosts an early lead in the second minute, finishing a move assisted by Ademola Lookman. Tanzania levelled in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, who converted an opportunity to make it 1-1, and the sides went into the break level despite both creating chances.S1S2

Head coach Éric Chelle made changes at the interval that proved decisive. Tolu Arokodare, introduced for Tochukwu Nnadi, restored Nigeria's lead in the 52nd minute with a backheel finish from Wilfred Ndidi's cross, and he struck again in the 60th minute with a low shot after a cross from substitute Moses Usor, who had replaced Yusuf. The brace continued a strong run of form for Arokodare, who has scored eight goals in his last six appearances for club and country.S1S2

Tanzania made further substitutions in search of a way back but could not break the Nigerian defence, and Nigeria recorded 65 per cent possession and seven shots on target. Lookman was forced off with an injury late in the first half, a concern for Chelle ahead of the next assignment.S2S3

The return fixture against Tanzania is scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar. Tanzania have already secured qualification for the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda, but continue in the campaign, while Madagascar sit third in the group with two points.S2S3