Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, has urged Nigeria’s Super Eagles to maintain their winning momentum as they prepare for their return-leg encounter against Tanzania in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Shaibu made the appeal following Nigeria’s impressive 3-1 victory over Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday.
He congratulated the players for their performance, urging them to remain disciplined, focused and determined as they prepare for Tuesday’s encounter.
The victory strengthened Nigeria’s position in Group L and boosted the team’s hopes of securing qualification for the continental championship.
Super Eagles overcome Tanzania in Uyo
Nigeria started the encounter brightly, taking the lead in the second minute through Alhassan Yusuf, who finished a pass from Ademola Lookman.
Tanzania responded in the 32nd minute when Alphonce Mabula Msanga found the back of the net to restore parity.
Both sides went into the half-time break level at 1-1, leaving Nigeria with work to do in the second half.
However, the introduction of substitute Tolu Arokodare changed the momentum of the match.
Arokodare restored Nigeria’s advantage in the 52nd minute with a flicked finish from Wilfred Ndidi’s delivery.
The forward struck again eight minutes later, converting a cross from fellow substitute Moses Usor to complete his brace and give Nigeria a comfortable 3-1 victory.
Nigeria moves into second place in Group L
The result took Nigeria to six points from three matches, placing the Super Eagles second in Group L, one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, who had accumulated seven points.
Guinea-Bissau maintained their position at the top following a 1-1 draw against Madagascar in the other group fixture.
The standings leave Nigeria with an opportunity to strengthen its qualification prospects through a positive result in the return encounter.
Tanzania awaits Nigeria in Zanzibar
The Super Eagles will travel to Zanzibar for Tuesday’s Matchday Four fixture against Tanzania at the Amman Stadium.
With confidence boosted by their home victory, Nigeria will be looking to maintain its momentum and secure another important result.
Shaibu’s message to the players is clear: the first victory must serve as motivation rather than a reason for complacency as the team continues its campaign for a place at the 2027 AFCON tournament.
