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Ademola Lookman Scored a brilliant winner in the second half Nigeria scores thrilling win over Tanzania at Africa Cup of Nations in their Group C opener in Fes.
Reaching the line in torrential rain was a positive start for the tournament runners-up two years ago, but it was not without moments of danger.
Nigeria were more impressive in terms of possession and chances by scoreline, but they failed to close out the contest and their profligacy in front of goal almost made them pay for their East African opponents.
Semi Ajayi gave Nigeria the lead in the first half, but Charles M’Mombwa equalized five minutes after half-time. However, the Tanzanians’ joy lasted only two minutes, as Lookman scored from outside the box which proved to be the winner.
Tunisia and Uganda play their opening group c game Later on Tuesday in Rabat.
tanzania They are now winless in 10 Afcon fixtures, with three draws and seven defeats in that time, and although they never looked like they would break that run in this game, they will feel they should have earned a draw with a few late chances.
Nigeria set up camp early in Tanzania’s half and had several opportunities, including Victor Osimhen Goalkeeper Zuberi Foba saw his effort cleared off the line.
However, after this the West African team did not have to wait long for the opener. Alex Iwobi sent in a cross in the 36th minute, which Ajayi responded to on the edge of the six-yard box and he fired his header with precision.
The East African side had a rare spell of possession which led to the equalizer when M’Mombwa beat the offside trap from Novatus Miroshi’s high and hanging cross and finished on the volley five minutes into the second half. The Tanzanians’ joy lasted only two minutes, as Nigeria soon went in front when Lookman turned his marker before firing a shot from 25 yards which hit the far corner of the net.
Tanzania rallied late in the contest in search of an equalizer and Kelvin John was inches away from a touch that would have sent the ball into an empty net, before Ibrahim Hamad fired wildly over the bar from close range.
reuters