Coming off the heartbreak of missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the three-time African champions enter the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a point to prove. Under the guidance of head coach Éric Chelle, Nigeria is seeking to go one step further than their runner-up finish in the previous edition.
Match Details & Kick-off Time
Team News: Osimhen and Lookman Lead the Charge
Nigeria boasts one of the most feared attacking lineups in the tournament. Victor Osimhen, who recently "declared war" on his opponents, is expected to lead the line alongside Ballon d'Or nominee Ademola Lookman.
In the midfield, all eyes will be on Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who has been handed the prestigious Number 10 jersey. Defensively, Stanley Nwabali remains the undisputed number one between the posts, shielded by the experienced duo of William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey.
Tanzania, led by Argentine coach Miguel Gamondi, will lean heavily on veteran striker Mbwana Samatta and the creative Feisal Salum. While the Taifa Stars are considered underdogs, they arrive with the ambition of securing their first-ever victory at an AFCON final.
Head-to-Head and History
Historically, Nigeria holds the upper hand in this fixture. The two nations have met seven times previously, with the Super Eagles winning four and three matches ending in draws.
Notably, this is the first time they have faced each other in an AFCON tournament since 1980—a year in which Nigeria beat Tanzania 3-1 in their opening game and went on to win the trophy for the first time. Fans in Lagos and beyond will be hoping history repeats itself today.
How to Watch
The match will be broadcast live across Nigeria on NTA, SuperSport, and the CAF TV YouTube channel. Digital viewers can also follow the action via the DStv Stream and StarTimes apps.
Group C Outlook: Following this match, Nigeria will prepare for a heavyweight clash against Tunisia on December 27, while Tanzania will take on Uganda.