The win extended the Super Eagles’ dominance in the fixture to nine matches unbeaten against the Taifa Stars and offered a timely response after last month’s failure to qualify for a second successive fifa world cup finals. Moments later, the Sevilla forward came even closer, powering a header against the crossbar from close range following sustained pressure. Tanzania briefly threatened to disrupt Nigeria’s rhythm when Simon Msuva produced an acrobatic effort that was comfortably gathered by Stanley Nwabali, but the Super Eagles continued to assert themselves. From a corner, Alex Iwobi’s inswinging delivery was glanced expertly into the far corner by Semi Ajayi, giving the Super Eagles a deserved lead. Just two minutes later, Lookman created space on the edge of the area and unleashed a magnificent left-footed strike into the far corner, restoring the Super Eagles’ advantage and settling any early nerves.

Source: Punch December 24, 2025 02:13 UTC