Nigeria’s Super Eagles will host Tanzania in Uyo on Friday as they seek to revive their hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Eric Chelle’s side need maximum points from the encounter, having won one and lost the other of their opening two Group L matches.

The Super Eagles began their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo but suffered a 3-0 defeat away to Guinea-Bissau days later.

The results have left Nigeria behind Guinea-Bissau in the group standings, with only one additional qualifying ticket available following Tanzania’s automatic qualification as co-hosts of the tournament alongside Uganda and Kenya.

Nigeria’s recent form has also added to the pressure on the team, with the Super Eagles recording just one win in their last five internationals, alongside two draws and two defeats.

The team has also failed to keep a clean sheet during that period, which included a 3-3 friendly draw against Russia on October 6.

Chelle has insisted that Nigeria must take maximum points from both legs of the double-header against Tanzania to strengthen their chances of securing the group’s remaining ticket.

The return fixture is scheduled for Dar es Salaam four days after Friday’s encounter in Uyo.

Nigeria, however, enjoy a favourable historical record against the Taifa Stars, having won five and drawn three of their eight previous meetings across all competitions.
Tanzania are yet to record a victory over the Super Eagles.

Their most recent meeting was at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Ademola Lookman inspired Nigeria to a 2-1 victory.

Tanzania’s coach, Miguel Gamondi, will view the double-header as an opportunity to assess his team and build momentum ahead of the tournament, which the East African nation will co-host.

With qualification already secured, the Taifa Stars will be under less pressure, but they will be eager to end their winless run against Nigeria and make a statement ahead of the tournament.

For Nigeria, the stakes remain high as the team seeks to secure a 22nd appearance at the continental showpiece.