As the countdown to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations reaches its final hours, Super Eagles talisman Victor Osimhen has made it clear that Nigeria is approaching their opening fixture against Tanzania with the intensity of a “war.” The highly anticipated Group C clash is set to take place on Tuesday at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco, with the first whistle scheduled for 6:30 pm Nigerian time.
Leading the charge for the three-time African champions, Osimhen emphasized that while Nigeria enters the tournament as one of the heavy favorites, there is no room for complacency. Under the guidance of head coach Éric Chelle, the Super Eagles are looking to go one step further than their runner-up finish in the last edition. The team is treating the Taifa Stars of Tanzania with maximum respect, despite the East Africans being ranked significantly lower on the FIFA ladder.
“Tuesday is the first one, and we will give everything,” Osimhen told journalists during a recent media interaction. The Galatasaray striker noted that the squad is fully aware of the stakes and is prepared for a physical battle. He pointed out that while Nigeria is widely expected to dominate, the unpredictability of the AFCON means they must approach every minute with focus. For Osimhen, this tournament is also a personal mission to improve on his previous continental outing, where he managed one goal and an assist across seven matches.
Tanzania, led by Argentine tactician Miguel Ángel Gamondi, is making its fourth appearance at the tournament and is still hunting for its first-ever AFCON victory. Despite their underdog status, they boast experienced players like captain Mbwana Samatta, who the Super Eagles defense will need to monitor closely. The Taifa Stars are known for their disciplined defensive structure, a challenge that Osimhen believes the Nigerian attack is well-equipped to handle.
The atmosphere in the Nigerian camp remains positive, with players reportedly motivated to deliver a strong opening performance. Following the disappointment of missing out on the 2026 World Cup, the AFCON provides a crucial platform for the Super Eagles to reclaim their status as the kings of the continent. As Osimhen put it, the journey is long, but the dream of a fourth star on the Nigerian jersey is the primary fuel driving the team forward into tomorrow’s battle in Fès.
