Arokodare Scores Twice as Super Eagles Beat Tanzania 3–1 to Close Gap on Guinea-Bissau

Nigeria’s Super Eagles strengthened their chances of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after substitute Tolu Arokodare scored twice in a 3–1 victory over Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.

The victory moved Nigeria to six points in Group L, one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau as the battle for the remaining qualification spot intensified with three matches played.

Alhassan Yusuf gave Nigeria an early advantage, finding the net just two minutes after kick-off as the Super Eagles sought to recover from their disappointing defeat to Guinea-Bissau in September, News About Nigeria reports.

However, Tanzania responded in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, who restored parity and ensured both teams entered the half-time break level at 1–1.

Nigeria head coach Éric Chelle responded by introducing Arokodare at the beginning of the second half, a tactical decision that proved decisive as the striker transformed the contest within 15 minutes.

Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute before completing his brace eight minutes later, putting the Super Eagles firmly in control and securing their second victory in three qualifying matches.

The result provided an important response to Nigeria’s 3–0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau in September, which had placed additional pressure on the team to avoid further setbacks in the qualification race.

Despite the victory, Nigeria remain second in Group L after Guinea-Bissau played out a 1–1 draw with Madagascar.

Guinea-Bissau lead the standings with seven points followed by Nigeria with six, while Madagascar and Tanzania have two and one point, respectively.

With Tanzania already guaranteed participation in the 2027 tournament as one of the three co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda, Nigeria’s main qualification challenge remains overcoming Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar for the group’s available ticket.

For the Super Eagles, the three points in Uyo have narrowed the gap at the top of the standings, but the qualification race remains unresolved.

The performance also strengthened Arokodare’s case for a more prominent role in Chelle’s attacking plans, particularly after his introduction changed the direction of the encounter.

Nigeria will face Tanzania again on Tuesday, November 17, at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar with kick-off scheduled for 2 p.m. Nigerian time.

Another victory would move the Super Eagles to nine points and strengthen their position in the group as the qualification campaign continues.