Nigeria Seek Redemption Against Tanzania After Shock Defeat To Guinea-Bissau

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will face Tanzania in a crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, as they seek to strengthen their chances of reaching the continental tournament.

The Group L match is scheduled to kick off at 5:00 p.m., with head coach Eric Chelle and his players under pressure to secure maximum points after a disappointing result in their previous qualifying fixture.

According to information made available to Bush Radio Academy, Nigeria have collected three points from their opening two matches, having started their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar before suffering a 3-0 defeat away to Guinea-Bissau in September.

The Super Eagles currently trail Guinea-Bissau in the group standings, making the encounter against Tanzania particularly important as they attempt to revive their qualification campaign.

Tanzania, meanwhile, have already secured their place at the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda. Their automatic qualification means that only one additional ticket is available in Group L for the remaining teams.

Chelle has reportedly challenged his players to win both matches against Tanzania during the November international window. The return fixture is scheduled to take place in Dar es Salaam on November 17, giving Nigeria an opportunity to collect six points from the double-header.

However, the Super Eagles will need to improve their recent performances, having recorded just one victory in their last five international matches, alongside two draws and two defeats. They have also struggled defensively during that period, failing to keep a clean sheet. Their recent results include a 3-3 draw against Russia in an international friendly on October 6.

Despite their inconsistent form, Nigeria will draw confidence from their previous encounters with Tanzania. The Super Eagles have won five and drawn three of their eight meetings with the Taifa Stars, who are yet to record a victory against the Nigerian side.

Their most recent meeting took place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Nigeria secured a 2-1 victory, with Ademola Lookman playing an important role.

With qualification pressure mounting, Friday’s encounter presents Chelle and his players with an important opportunity to return to winning ways and strengthen Nigeria’s hopes of securing a place at the 2027 AFCON.