Nigeria deserved to win, says Tanzania coach after 3-1 loss

Nigeria’s Super Eagles took a two‑minute lead in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo, only to see Tanzania equalise before the half‑hour mark. The Argentine‑born Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi, speaking after the match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, openly acknowledged that “Nigeria deserves to win the game”. He added that the Nigerians are among the best sides in Africa, while also highlighting the impact of travel on his own squad and the importance of the upcoming return leg.

Alhassan Yusuf’s early strike set the tone, but Alphonce Msanga restored parity for the Tanzanians after 32 minutes. The match’s decisive moment arrived after the interval when substitute Tolu Arokodare entered the field and netted two goals, sealing a 3‑1 victory for Nigeria. Gamondi singled out Arokodare, describing the forward as “big… physically and in quality”, and calling him the decisive factor that tipped the balance in Nigeria’s favour. The striker’s brace not only secured three points but also reinforced his reputation as a goal‑scorer to watch in the region.

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In his post‑match comments, Gamondi did not shy away from critiquing his own team’s start. “We started in the worst scenario,” he said, referring to the early concession. He emphasized that the Tanzanian side needed to learn from the encounter, noting that the game offered a clear benchmark of their current level. “We need to give credit to Nigeria. For me, they are one of the best teams in Africa, and Tanzania needs to continue working because this kind of game gives us something to learn,” he added, underscoring the developmental value of facing a strong opponent.

Travel fatigue, according to the Tanzanian coach, played a significant role in the performance of his players. He explained that the long journeys and unfamiliar conditions made it difficult for his squad to maintain intensity for the full ninety minutes. “Even the condition, we travelled, and it is difficult for us to perform 90 minutes. Even the next game would be worse because we made a lot of unbelievable trips but we cannot complain,” Gamondi said, hinting that the logistical challenges could be an even bigger obstacle in the second leg of the qualifier. His remarks reflect a common concern among African teams that extensive travel across the continent can affect preparation and recovery.

The upcoming fixture will be played at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar on Tuesday, 17 November. Both sides know that the second encounter will determine which nation progresses, despite Tanzania already having secured its place as a co‑host for the 2027 AFCON alongside Kenya and Uganda. The co‑hosting arrangement guarantees Tanzania a spot in the tournament, but a win in the return leg would still be valuable for morale and regional ranking. Gamondi warned that the return game could be tougher, given the cumulative strain of travel and the need to overturn a two‑goal deficit.

Nigeria’s qualification campaign continues to build momentum, with the Super Eagles now boasting a comfortable lead in the group. Their ability to score early, absorb pressure, and rely on substitutes like Arokodare to deliver decisive blows illustrates depth within the squad. The confidence expressed by the Tanzanian coach about Nigeria’s quality may serve as a psychological boost for the Eagles as they prepare for future qualifiers and the eventual tournament. For Tanzania, the loss is a reminder of the gap that still exists between them and the continent’s elite, even as they benefit from guaranteed tournament participation.

Fans in Uyo witnessed a match that combined swift goals, tactical adjustments, and a showcase of emerging talent. Local media highlighted the disciplined defensive work that allowed Nigeria to withstand Tanzania’s resurgence after the first half, while also praising the attacking flair of Arokodare, who was praised by the opposing coach. The match’s atmosphere, filled with chants and national colours, show the growing passion for football across West and East Africa, a factor that officials hope will translate into higher attendance and greater commercial interest as the AFCON approaches.

As the two teams ready themselves for the Zanzibar showdown, both coaches are expected to fine‑tune their strategies. Gamondi will likely address the fatigue issue and look to field a more resilient side, while Nigeria’s camp will aim to maintain the attacking edge that proved decisive in Uyo. The outcome of the second leg will not only decide the group winner but also provide insight into how each side copes with the pressures of continental qualification and the logistical realities of African football.