Nigeria’s Super Eagles have intensified preparations ahead of their Group C opener against Tanzania, with midfielder Alex Iwobi expressing confidence that the team’s hard work will translate into positive results when the campaign kicks off on Tuesday.
The Super Eagles were back on the training pitch on Monday as they continued fine-tuning plans for the crucial encounter.
Despite a light drizzle at the training venue, the players and coaching crew remained focused and committed, putting in a solid session as they geared up for their first match of the competition.
Speaking to journalists before the start of training, Iwobi reflected on Nigeria’s recent friendly defeat to Egypt, stressing that the team has chosen to concentrate on the lessons learned rather than the result itself.
According to the Fulham midfielder, the match served as a valuable opportunity for integration and adaptation within the squad.
“We lost a preparation game but we took some positives,” Iwobi said.
“There were a lot of new faces, a lot of people adapting to the system and to the way the manager wants us to play.
“We are still preparing and working hard. Now that we have the full team together, hopefully the preparation will go well and we will get the results.”
The Super Eagles head into the clash against the Taifas Stars as clear favourites, backed by an impressive head-to-head record.
Nigeria have never lost to Tanzania, recording five wins and three draws in previous meetings between both sides.
Historically, the two teams have only met once at the Africa Cup of Nations.
That encounter came in the opening match of the 1980 AFCON, hosted by Nigeria, where the Super Eagles secured a convincing 3–1 victory on home soil — a tournament they eventually went on to win.
With expectations high and confidence building within the camp, the Super Eagles will be hoping to make a strong statement against Tanzania as they begin their quest for continental glory.