Semi Ajayi’s commanding performance earned Man of the Match as Nigeria beat Tanzania 2–1 in their 2025 AFCON Group C opener

Nigeria centre-back Semi Ajayi produced a commanding performance to underpin the Super Eagles’ 2–1 victory over Tanzania in their opening Group C match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, earning the official Man of the Match award.

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The 31-year-old opened the scoring in the 36th minute, rising highest to guide Alex Iwobi’s corner into the far post to give Nigeria a deserved lead after sustained pressure.

It was his only attempt of the match and his only effort on target, but it proved decisive.

Speaking after the match, Ajayi described the goal as a special moment but stressed that improvement remained essential.

“It is an amazing feeling. It is always special to score for your country, especially in a game like this where it helped us get off to a really good start,” he said.

Beyond the goal, Ajayi delivered a disciplined and authoritative display at the heart of Nigeria’s defence.

He completed five tackles, made two interceptions, registered two clearances and blocked one shot.

He also recorded four recoveries and was not dribbled past during the contest.

Ajayi dominated his individual battles, winning all three ground duels and all three aerial challenges as Tanzania pushed for an equaliser, particularly in the latter stages when Nigeria were forced to defend deep.

The defender said the performance reflected collective responsibility within the squad.

“We cannot rely only on the attackers to score goals. Defenders and midfielders also have to contribute if we want to do well in this tournament,” he said.

In possession, Ajayi was equally assured, completing 58 of 64 passes for a 91 per cent success rate. He recorded 98 per cent accuracy in his own half and completed eight of 13 passes in the opposition half, finishing the match with 73 touches.

Tanzania briefly equalised early in the second half through Charles M’Mombwa, but Nigeria responded swiftly when Ademola Lookman struck from distance to restore the lead.

From there, Ajayi marshalled the defence with composure and authority as the Taifa Stars searched for a route back into the match.

Late pressure included a close-range chance for Ibrahim Hamad, who fired over the bar, but Nigeria held firm to secure all three points.

Despite the positive start, Ajayi said there was still work to be done.

“There are areas we can improve, especially in managing games and finishing teams off, but there are also many positives we can take from this performance,” he said.

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Nigeria now turn their attention to Saturday’s Group C encounter with Tunisia at the same stadium as they continue their pursuit of a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title.