Nigeria opened their 2025 AFCON campaign with a 2-1 win over Tanzania in Fès, but head coach Eric Chelle made it clear the Super Eagles must raise their level as the tournament progresses.
Semi Ajayi put Nigeria ahead in the 36th minute, heading in Alex Iwobi’s inswinging cross, only for Charles M’Mombwa to equalise shortly after half time.
Ademola Lookman struck back almost immediately, and Nigeria showed composure late on to protect the lead.
Despite taking all three points, Chelle was far from satisfied with the overall performance. “We did a lot of good things in the first half to create chances to score,” he said.
“But in the second half we gave Tanzania the chance to come back into the game. We made two mistakes.”
While pleased with the result, the Franco-Malian coach stressed the need for steady improvement, adding: “At the AFCON, the most important thing is to improve with every game.”
Runners-up at the last tournament, Nigeria now turn their attention to a tougher Group C test against Tunisia on Saturday as they continue their push for a fourth continental crown.
