Match Summary
Nigeria defeated Tanzania 2:1. The match was played in Africa Cup of Nations 2025. Goals were scored by S. Ajayi 36′, C. M'Mombwa 50′, A. Lookman 52′. 1 yellow cards were shown. Nigeria had 59% possession while Tanzania held 41%. Nigeria had 21 shots (11 on target) compared to 11 (3 on target) for Tanzania. Nigeria made 3 substitutions, Tanzania made 4.
Match Events
Key match events between Nigeria and Tanzania — 3 goals and 1 cards recorded during the match.
assist: A. Iwobi
assist: N. Miroshi
assist: A. Iwobi
Match Statistics
Nigeria had 59% possession against Tanzania's 41%. Nigeria registered 21 shots (11 on target) while Tanzania managed 11 (3 on target). Corner kicks: 6–6. Fouls committed: 23–7.
Lineups
Nigeria lined up in a 4-3-1-2 formation under Éric Sékou Chelle, while Tanzania deployed a 4-2-3-1 under Hemed Suleiman Ali.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Nigeria is 7.26, compared to 6.65 for Tanzania. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Nigeria's highest-rated starter is A. Lookman (7.82), while Tanzania's best-rated player is I. Hamad (7.10).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Nigeria have contributed 11 goals and 12 assists this season, led by V. Osimhen (4G). Tanzania's starters account for 2 goals and 2 assists, spearheaded by S. Msuva (1G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Nigeria deploy 4 defenders rated 7.05 on average, against Tanzania's 4-man backline averaging 6.75. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Nigeria field 4 midfielders averaging 7.54, versus Tanzania's 6 rated 6.65. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Nigeria start 2 forward(s) averaging 7.03, compared to 1 for Tanzania averaging 6.22. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 58% for Nigeria and —% for Tanzania. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Nigeria's starters have collected 10 yellow cards this season, compared to 6 for Tanzania. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Nigeria's starting XI is 27.9 (youngest: A. Adams (25), oldest: S. Ajayi (32)), while Tanzania average 28.2 (youngest: A. Msanga (22), oldest: S. Kapombe (33)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Nigeria's starters average 5 league appearances each, versus 4 for Tanzania. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Substitutes
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Nigeria have recorded 4 wins, 2 draws and 0 defeats. Tanzania show 0 wins, 2 draws and 4 losses from their last 6 outings.
Nigeria
Tanzania
API data: 15 Mar 2026