AFCON 2027 Race: Arokodare Inspires Super Eagles’ Revival Against Tanzania

Posted : 14 November 2026

Tolu Arokodare came off the bench to deliver a decisive second-half double as Nigeria’s Super Eagles defeated Tanzania’s Taifa Stars 3-1 in their Day 3 encounter of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The victory at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, offered Nigeria a timely response to their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau on Day 2.

Nigeria started brightly, with Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi opening the scoring after justifying the team's attacking intent with a clinical finish.

The US-based midfielder was set up by Ademola Lookman, who picked him out inside the box following a swift attacking move.

However, Tanzania drew level in the 32nd minute when Alphonce Mabuma Msanga capitalised on a costly error in Nigeria’s midfield to beat the Nigerian goalkeeper.

The Super Eagles returned from the break with renewed purpose, and the introduction of Arokodare immediately transformed their attacking threat.

The forward restored Nigeria’s advantage in the 52nd minute, applying a clever back-flick to Wilfred Ndidi’s pass to put the hosts ahead.

Arokodare struck again eight minutes later, calmly slotting past the Tanzanian goalkeeper after a defender failed to deal with Moses Usor’s dangerous pull-out from the left flank.

Usor, who also scored Nigeria’s winner against Madagascar on the opening day, proved a constant threat after his introduction, troubling the visitors with his pace and ability to operate from either wing.

Arokodare nearly completed his hat-trick later in the encounter, but the Tanzanian goalkeeper anticipated his effort in a one-on-one situation.

Beyond the three points, the victory represents an important psychological boost for Nigeria, who have now reduced the damage caused by their earlier defeat.

The result also keeps the Super Eagles firmly in contention, with just one point separating them from group leaders Guinea-Bissau.

Guinea-Bissau dropped points after being held to a 1-1 draw by Madagascar in their Day 3 fixture in Meknes on Thursday.

Nigeria will now turn their attention to Tuesday’s return fixture against Tanzania in Zanzibar, where another positive result could strengthen their position in the qualifying race.

AFCON 2027 Race: Arokodare Inspires Super Eagles’ Revival Against Tanzania

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