Nigeria take on Tanzania in their Africa Cup of Nations opening fixture at the Fez Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Nigeria finished top of Group D to qualify for the 21st time, while Tanzania finished behind South Africa in Group H, securing their place in the tournament for the fourth time.
Match preview
The Super Eagles finished second at the last AFCON, but head into this tournament on the back of missing out on 2026 World Cup qualification and several off-the-field issues.
Despite this, they are one of the favourites owing to their pedigree and quality, particularly in the attacking department.
Nigeria have met Tanzania eight times, winning five and drawing three.
Eric Chelle’s side will be aiming to lay down a marker here, but will need to be patient to break down Tanzania’s defence.
The Taifa stars have never progressed beyond the group stage and will hope to rewrite history here, starting with Tuesday’s showdown.
Tanzania do not have a prolific attack, but compensate with defensive solidity. They are expected to provide a stern test for the Super Eagles.
Former African Men’s Player of the Year Victor Osimhen is the Nigerian player to watch, while Novatus Miroshi is Tanzania’s key player.
Team news
Nigeria will be without William Troost-Ekong – who won the Player of the Tournament at the last AFCON – following his retirement from international football.
Ola Aina and Benjamin Frederick could not make it to the tournament due to injuries. Tanzania have no injury concerns.
Predicted starting line-ups
Nigeria (4-3-3): Stanley Nwabali, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman.
Tanzania (4-1-4-1): Yakoub Suleiman, Pascal Msindo, Ibrahim Hamad, Bakari Mwamnyeto, Lusajo Mwaikenda, Novatus Miroshi, Tarryn Allarakhia, Morice Abraham, Feisal Salum, Charles M’Mombwa, Kelvin John.
Prediction
Nigeria should be too strong for Tanzania – we predict a 3-0 win for them.
Stats from whoscored.com & 11v11.com.
