By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Nigeria began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign on a winning note with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania, a result shaped by an authoritative performance from Semi Ajayi that earned him the official Man of the Match award from CAF.
The Super Eagles defender put his side ahead in the 36th minute, powering a header into the far corner from Alex Iwobi’s corner kick after sustained pressure from Nigeria. Remarkably, it was Ajayi’s only attempt of the match and his lone effort on target, yet it proved decisive in setting the tone for the opening group fixture.
Reflecting on the moment after the game, Ajayi said, “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. I was very pleased.”
While pleased with the outcome, the centre-back stressed that the team were already looking ahead to areas that need attention.
“We are aware of the areas where we need to do better, particularly in seeing out games and killing teams off. We will be working very hard on the training pitch to put that right,” he added.
Ajayi’s impact extended far beyond his goal. At the back, he was a constant presence, making five tackles, winning two, alongside two interceptions and two clearances. He also blocked a shot, recorded four recoveries and was never dribbled past throughout the contest.
He was equally dominant in individual battles, winning all three of his ground duels and all three aerial challenges. His composure proved vital in the latter stages as Tanzania increased the pressure and Nigeria were forced to defend deeper.
The 31-year-old described the performance as a reflection of the team’s collective mindset.
“It shows that we are one team. We cannot rely only on the attackers to score goals. We need contributions from all over the pitch. Defenders and midfielders also have to chip in if we want to do well in the tournament,” he said.
On the ball, Ajayi was calm and efficient. He completed 58 of his 64 passes, recording a 91 per cent success rate, with 98 per cent accuracy in his own half. He also found teammates with eight of 13 passes in the opposition half, attempted eight long balls with four successful and ended the match with 73 touches, losing possession just eight times.
Tanzania briefly drew level early in the second half through Charles M’Mombwa, but Nigeria responded quickly when Ademola Lookman struck from outside the box to restore their advantage. From that point on, Ajayi organised the defence as the Taifa Stars searched for another equaliser.
Despite the strong start to the tournament, Ajayi maintained that improvement was still needed.
“I am glad we got off to a good start. There are a few things we can iron out and improve, but there are also a lot of positives we can take from the game,” he said.
Nigeria survived a tense finish, including a clear opportunity for Ibrahim Hamad, who fired over from close range, as the Super Eagles held on for all three points.
The display has further boosted confidence within the camp as Nigeria now turn their focus to Saturday’s Group C encounter against Tunisia at the same Fez Stadium, continuing their quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations crown.