AFCON 2025: Nigeria vs Tanzania — Match Preview, Date, Time and TV Details

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will kick off their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign against Tanzania on Tuesday, December 23, in what will be the two sides’ first meeting since 1980.

The Super Eagles head into the tournament seeking redemption after narrowly missing out on the AFCON 2023 title, where they surrendered a first-half lead to hosts Ivory Coast in the final. Nigeria also endured a disappointing FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, failing to secure a ticket after a dramatic playoff run that ended in a penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo.

Under head coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria will be eager to start strongly, although caution is advised. The West Africans were recently edged by Egypt in a pre-tournament friendly, highlighting the need for focus despite being clear favorites on paper.

Tanzania, known as the Taifa Stars, are making their fifth AFCON appearance but are yet to progress beyond the group stage, having exited at this phase in their previous four outings. They will be looking to build momentum ahead of the next AFCON, which they will co-host alongside Uganda and Kenya.

However, Tanzania arrived in Morocco in poor form, without a win in their last seven matches—recording two draws and five defeats. Their recent outings include a 4–3 friendly loss to Kuwait and a World Cup qualifying defeat to Zambia.

Nigeria boast a formidable squad featuring Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi, while Tanzania will depend on key players such as Simon Msuva and Feisal Salum to challenge the Super Eagles’ defence.

Fixture: Nigeria vs Tanzania
Competition: AFCON 2025 (Group C)
Date: Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m. (Nigerian time)
Venue: Fez Stadium, Fes
TV: CAF TV