Fès, Morocco — Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman has declared that Nigeria remains “determined to win the title” as they prepare for their Nigeria vs Tanzania AFCON 2025 opener. The 28-year-old Atalanta winger emphasized that the team’s current unity will be the deciding factor in their quest for a fourth continental crown.
Lookman was a standout performer in the previous edition, scoring three times and earning a spot in the Team of the Tournament. Specifically, he believes the heartbreak of losing the 2023 final to Côte d’Ivoire has only strengthened the squad’s resolve. Under the guidance of head coach Éric Chelle, who took over in early 2025, the team now focuses on tactical discipline and collective effort.
“Last time, we came so close in Abidjan, but we didn’t win. Keeping that togetherness and unity that we have in the squad is an important thing for us to keep going,” Lookman told Elegbete TV. “We have to show quality in games and show togetherness in our fight. Once that all comes together, things will be great.”
Ademola Lookman targets redemption in the Nigeria vs Tanzania AFCON 2025 fixture.
Strategic Importance of the Nigeria vs Tanzania AFCON 2025 Opener
The Nigeria vs Tanzania AFCON 2025 match is highly anticipated. Notably, this is only the second time both nations will meet at the AFCON finals. Their last meeting in this tournament occurred 45 years ago in 1980. On that occasion, the Super Eagles defeated the Taifa Stars 3–1 in Lagos before lifting their first title.
Furthermore, history strongly favors Nigeria. The Super Eagles remain unbeaten in all seven previous encounters against Tanzania, recording four wins and three draws. Consequently, experts expect a dominant display from a Nigerian attack led by Lookman and reigning African Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen.
Super Eagles Squad Depth and Tournament Outlook
Coach Éric Chelle has named a formidable 28-man squad for the tournament in Morocco. In addition to Lookman and Osimhen, the team features stars like Samuel Chukwueze and captain Wilfred Ndidi. Indeed, the Super Eagles possess arguably the most lethal attacking department on the continent.
The Group C encounter against Tanzania kicks off at 6:30 PM WAT (5:30 PM GMT) on Tuesday, December 23, at the Fez Stadium. A victory would provide the momentum needed as Nigeria prepares to face Tunisia and Uganda in the subsequent group games. Ultimately, the goal remains the same: to bring the trophy home and provide redemption for the Super Eagles after missing the 2026 World Cup.
