Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been drawn into Group C for the forthcoming AFCON 2025 tournament. Their group opponents include Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia, as reported by Soccernet.ng.
After finishing as runners-up in the 2023 AFCON hosted by Ivory Coast, the three-time champions are determined to reclaim the trophy when the tournament takes place in Morocco.
In an exclusive interview with CAF Online, Tanzania’s head coach Hemed Suleiman shared his team’s ambitions, stressing their aim to gather at least four points to ensure progression beyond the group stage.
“Our objective is to secure a minimum of four points, which generally positions a team well for advancing to the knockout rounds. A solid defensive structure and clean sheets will be vital,” explained the 55-year-old coach.
“Offensively, we are focusing on improving our finishing. We have dedicated time to refining our transitions and set-piece routines, as these moments often decide tight contests. Consistency and discipline are pillars of our strategy.”
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Suleiman Acknowledges Nigeria’s Formidable Attack
For Tanzania’s Taifa Stars to advance, they must deliver strong performances against Nigeria’s Super Eagles. Suleiman commended Nigeria’s attacking capabilities, noting their knack for exploiting opponents’ errors.
“Nigeria possesses a wealth of attacking talent and inventive playmakers who can capitalize on any momentary lapses in concentration.
“Tunisia is a tactically disciplined team that is difficult to break down, requiring patience. Uganda plays a possession-based, combative style, and their regional rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity.
“We will tailor our tactics to each opponent while maintaining our team’s core identity.
“Several teams are strong contenders for the title. Nigeria and Senegal boast elite African squads, with many players active in top European leagues.
“Morocco, as hosts, combine tactical organization, confidence, and quality. Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, and Algeria bring experience and depth to the competition.
“However, AFCON is famously unpredictable – while favorites are strong, surprises are always on the cards,” Suleiman remarked.
Victor Osimhen of Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Super Eagles of Nigeria and Benin Republic at Godwill Akpabio Stadium on October 14, 2025 in Uyo, Nigeria” width=”1024″ height=”684″ />While Tanzania may lack globally recognized stars, Suleiman remains confident in harnessing his squad’s strengths.
“Finding the right equilibrium is crucial. Experience helps with game management and decision-making, but it must be balanced with youthful vigor, creativity, and discipline.
“Our philosophy emphasizes collective effort over individual brilliance. Our squad selection reflects this balance, aiming to be competitive now while building for the future.
“We have strong faith in our set-piece tactics. In closely fought tournaments, set pieces often prove decisive.
“We have developed varied delivery techniques and rigorously trained on defending them. Many players are familiar with high-pressure set-piece scenarios through their club careers.
“Our aim is to blend unpredictability with structure, which we believe will give us a competitive edge.”
Eric Chelle of Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Amavubi of Rwanda” width=”1024″ height=”684″ />“Progressing to the knockout phase would be a landmark achievement for us, but our ambitions extend further – we aim to reach the quarter-finals and continue our development ahead of AFCON 2027, which we will co-host.
“Each round we advance through builds experience, raises expectations, and strengthens our long-term vision: not just qualifying, but consistently competing at the highest level,” Suleiman concluded.
The Super Eagles are set to kick off their AFCON 2025 campaign against Tanzania on December 23rd.