Nigeria prepares to face Tanzania in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group C opener with a strong squad, particularly in attack, as the Super Eagles aim to assert themselves from the first whistle.
Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman emerge as Nigeria’s key offensive threats.
Both players have impressed in recent appearances together, demonstrating pace, skill, and finishing ability, although their link-up play remains a work in progress.
Despite this, Nigeria enters the fixture as favourites, with expectations of a tightly contested and potentially low-scoring match.
The Nigerian side faces a goalkeeper decision following Maduka Okoye’s omission from the squad.
Francis Uzoho is poised to take the number one role, providing stability between the posts. Osimhen, the team’s leading striker, has expressed eagerness to play and spearhead Nigeria’s attack.
A probable starting lineup for the Super Eagles in a 4-5-1 formation includes: Uzoho; Osayi-Samuel, Awaziem, Bassey, Sanusi; Lookman, Onyeka, Onyedika, Iwobi, Chukwueze; Osimhen.
This setup balances defensive solidity with creative options in midfield and pace on the flanks.
Tanzania, managed by Argentina’s Miguel Angel Gamondi, will rely on experience and leadership from captain Mbwana Samatta, the former Aston Villa striker.
Samatta remains Tanzania’s focal point in attack and will lead a side that blends experienced internationals with emerging talents.
A probable starting XI for the Taifa Stars in a 4-2-3-1 formation is: Suleiman Ali; Msindo, Hamad, Job, Kibabage; Salum, Abraham; John, Mnoga, Msuva; Samatta.
Gamondi’s approach is expected to emphasise defensive organisation while exploiting counter-attacking opportunities through Samatta and supporting attackers.
As both teams prepare to meet, Nigeria looks to capitalise on attacking depth and individual quality, while Tanzania will aim to frustrate the Super Eagles and leverage Samatta’s experience in decisive moments.
The match promises to set the tone for Group C and showcase emerging talent on the AFCON 2025 stage.
