Two second-half goals from substitute Tolu Arokodare inspired the Super Eagles to a 3-1 victory over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in their Matchday Three encounter in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The win at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, revived Nigeria’s qualification hopes after their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their previous outing.
Three-time African champions Nigeria made a flying start when United States-based midfielder Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi opened the scoring in the second minute, finishing off a swift attacking move after Ademola Lookman picked him out inside the box.
However, Tanzania drew level in the 32nd minute when Alphonce Mabuma Msanga capitalised on a lapse in the Nigerian midfield to beat the Super Eagles’ defence and restore parity.
Nigeria returned from the break with greater attacking purpose, and their renewed determination paid off in the 52nd minute when Arokodare, introduced at half-time, put the hosts back in front.
The striker finished with a clever back-flick from captain Wilfred Ndidi’s pass to make it 2-1.
Arokodare struck again eight minutes later to extend Nigeria’s advantage, calmly slotting past the Tanzanian goalkeeper after a defender failed to intercept a dangerous delivery from substitute Moses Usor.
Usor, who scored Nigeria’s winning goal against Madagascar on the opening day of the qualifying campaign at the same venue, proved a handful for the visitors, troubling their defence with his pace and movement from both wings.
Arokodare had an opportunity to complete his hat-trick later in the encounter but failed to beat the goalkeeper in a one-on-one situation.
The victory provided a timely boost for the Super Eagles, who had come under pressure following their setback against Guinea-Bissau.
The three points also improved Nigeria’s position in Group L, leaving them just one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Madagascar in their Matchday Three fixture in Meknes on Thursday.
The Super Eagles will now travel to Zanzibar for Tuesday’s return fixture against Tanzania, hoping to build on their Uyo victory and strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2027 AFCON.