Former Nigeria striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni says the Super Eagles must continue to improve their creativity in midfield, despite beginning their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a win.
Nigeria opened their AFCON 2025 campaign with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania in Group C, played at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco.
The Super Eagles took the lead in the 36th minute when Semi Ajayi headed home a cross from Alex Iwobi. Tanzania briefly equalised through Charles M’mombwa, but Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s advantage just two minutes later to secure all three points.
Speaking after the match, Yakubu praised the improvement in Nigeria’s midfield play, while stressing that more is still required.
“I can say today is much better,” Yakubu told Soccernet.ng. “You have Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, they try to create chances and they create some chances for Osimhen. He was just unlucky today. But we still need creative midfield, but the midfield today with Chukwueze, I think he did very well.”
Victor Osimhen. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Yakubu has previously highlighted Nigeria’s lack of inventive midfielders capable of linking play and creating clear goalscoring opportunities. Against Tanzania, Iwobi and Chukwueze deployed in deeper roles showed signs of addressing that concern.
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Chukwueze was heavily involved and came close to scoring on several occasions, while Osimhen worked tirelessly as the focal point of the attack. Despite failing to find the net, Yakubu insisted the striker’s performance should be viewed positively.
Semi Ajayi. Photo Credit. Justina Aniefiok
Semi Ajayi was named Man of the Match following a strong defensive display, with Lookman’s goal proving decisive.
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Nigeria face Tunisia in their next Group C fixture on 27 December, as the Super Eagles look to build momentum in Morocco.
