Nigeria’s Super Eagles will be counting on some of their experienced players to produce improved performances when they take on Tanzania in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture in Uyo.
The encounter presents an important opportunity for the Nigerian team to get back on track after their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in September. With expectations high, head coach Eric Chelle will be hoping his players respond positively and secure a much-needed victory.
However, the absence of Victor Osimhen through injury means Nigeria will have to find other ways to make their attack effective. Three players in particular, Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina and Akor Adams, have important roles to play in the encounter.
Ademola Lookman
Lookman is one of the players expected to make a significant impact against Tanzania, especially with Osimhen unavailable.
The Atlético Madrid forward has not enjoyed the best campaign so far, managing just two goals and one assist in 14 appearances across all competitions.
His lack of regular playing time has also become a concern, having remained an unused substitute during Atlético Madrid’s 2-1 loss to Barcelona on November 8.
Despite his struggles at club level, manager Diego Simeone has continued to express confidence in the Nigerian international.
The Tanzania fixture offers Lookman an opportunity to regain his confidence and remind Nigerians of the attacking quality that made him one of the Super Eagles’ most influential players.
His pace, creativity and ability to take on defenders could prove important as Nigeria look to compensate for Osimhen’s absence.
Ola Aina
Another player who will be eager to impress is Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina.
The right-back has recently faced increased competition for his position following the arrival of Colombian defender Daniel Muñoz.
Aina started five of Forest’s opening six Premier League matches but subsequently lost his place in the starting line-up. Although he returned against Brentford, he was substituted at half-time, with Muñoz taking his place.
The Colombian later started against Manchester City, further increasing the competition for the position.
For Aina, the international assignment provides an opportunity to demonstrate his importance to the national team.
His defensive awareness, experience and ability to contribute to attacking moves could be valuable against Tanzania, particularly as Nigeria look to maintain balance on the right flank.
Akor Adams
Akor Adams is another player with plenty to prove, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Nigeria’s attacking options.
With Osimhen ruled out, the Venezia forward could have a bigger responsibility in leading the Super Eagles’ attack.
Adams has scored twice in 11 La Liga appearances this season, although his last league goal came against Napoli on October 17.
Nevertheless, he gave Nigerians something to celebrate during the October friendly against Russia, where he scored a dramatic 94th-minute equaliser to rescue a 3-3 draw for the Super Eagles.
That contribution demonstrated his ability to make an impact when the team needs him.
The Tanzania match will provide another opportunity for the 26-year-old to show that he can handle the responsibility of leading Nigeria’s forward line.
With Osimhen unavailable, Adams will need to make good use of any opportunity that comes his way, particularly in front of goal.
Nigeria’s response matters
Beyond the individual performances, the Super Eagles need a convincing collective display in Uyo.
Lookman, Aina and Adams all have different responsibilities, but their contributions could play an important role in determining Nigeria’s performance against Tanzania.
After the setback against Guinea-Bissau, the team will be under pressure to deliver a positive result and give supporters renewed confidence in their AFCON qualifying campaign.
