As the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have kicked off, Tanzania faces a challenge in their opening match against Nigeria. The meeting presents a contrast in tournament history.
Tanzania, participating in only their fourth AFCON finals, are on a mission to change their narrative. Their journey began with a first qualification in 1980, followed by a long wait until their return in 2019. Now, achieving back-to-back qualifications for the first time, the team shows signs of growing consistency.
However, history weighs heavily on the Taifa Stars. They carry a 10-match winless streak at AFCON tournaments (3 draws, 7 losses) and have lost all three of their previous opening games. Their attacking record is also a concern, with just one goal scored in their last four AFCON matches.
Yet, there are glimpses of progress. In the 2023 edition, Tanzania avoided defeat in two consecutive AFCON matches for the first time ever. Their only clean sheet in the competition’s history was earned during a 0–0 draw against DR Congo in that tournament. This developing resilience, combined with their successful qualification for the AFCON in Morocco 2025, provides a foundation of hope.
The team will look to forwards Simon Msuva and Feisal Salum, who finished as joint top scorers in the qualifying campaign with two goals each, to spark their attack.
Standing in their way is star studded side Nigerian whose aim is to win the tournament. For Tanzania, this match is more than just an opener; it is an opportunity to defy their past, leverage their recent growth, and potentially secure a result against one of Africa’s most celebrated football nations. The stage is set for a clash between a team building its legacy and one determined to uphold its own.
Statistics
Tanzania are making their 4th AFCON appearance
First qualified in 1980, returned at Egypt 2019
Back-to-back AFCON qualifications for the first time in their history
10 AFCON matches without a win (D3 L7)
Lost all three of their previous opening games at the finals
Avoided defeat in two consecutive AFCON matches for the first time in 2023
Only AFCON clean sheet came in a 0–0 draw vs DR Congo (2023)
Just one goal scored in their last four AFCON matches
Qualified for Morocco 2025 alongside DR Congo
Simon Msuva & Feisal Salum finished as joint top scorers in qualifying (2 goals each)