Ademola Lookman was Nigeria’s African Cup of Nations hero once again as the Super Eagles claimed an opening 2-1 win over Tanzania in Group C.
Semi Ajayi headed Nigeria into a 36th minute lead and Victor Osimhen had a brilliant backheel flick ruled out for offside within a minute of the restart.
But some slack defending was punished as Charles M’Mombwa steered home an assured volley, bringing the side ranked 112th in the world level.
Nigeria might have started to dwell on another humiliating episode, having failed to qualify for the World Cup, but Lookman took matters into his own hands with a goal fit to grace any occasion.
It feels safe to say Chelle’s talented but disjointed side will have to be much-improved when they return to Fez Stadium to face Tunisia on Saturday.
