AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Tanzania unfazed by Nigeria threat ahead of double-header

Tanzania have insisted they are not intimidated by Nigeria’s Super Eagles as both teams prepare for their crucial double-header in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The two nations are scheduled to meet in their Matchday Three encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, before the return fixture on Tuesday, November 17.

Tanzania arrived in Uyo on Monday, November 9, with the delegation expressing optimism about their chances of securing a positive result against the Super Eagles.

However, Almasi Kasongo, a member of the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), has expressed confidence in the Taifa Stars, maintaining the side have the quality and determination to compete against the Nigerian giants.

Despite acknowledging Nigeria’s impressive pedigree and the individual quality within their squad, Kasongo insists the Taifa Stars are well prepared for the challenge and have no reason to approach the encounter with fear.

“We are not scared. Football is a game of 90 minutes. We know the quality of Nigeria’s players and their pedigree. We are well prepared and have players from the local scene and abroad who are equal to the task as well,” he told reporters.

Kasongo further stressed that Tanzania have travelled to Nigeria with the intention of fighting for points rather than simply participating in the encounter.

“We are here to fight and get a result. We recognise Nigeria’s quality, but we will go to the stadium to get a result.”

The statement underlines Tanzania’s determination to approach the contest with confidence, despite facing a Nigerian side renowned for its strength and experience in African football.

For Gamondi, the opening encounter in Uyo presents an important opportunity to test his team’s readiness against one of the continent’s established football nations.

The Taifa Stars will, however, be aware that securing a favourable result away from home could prove important ahead of the return fixture on November 17.

With both teams eager to strengthen their positions in the qualification campaign, the two-legged contest is expected to provide a stern test for Tanzania and Nigeria as they pursue their ambitions of reaching the 2027 AFCON tournament.