Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi has expressed cautious satisfaction with his team’s performance despite their 2–1 loss to Nigeria in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Argentine coach, who took charge of the Taifa Stars just a month before the tournament, oversaw Tanzania’s 10th appearance at AFCON. However, the East Africans are still searching for their first-ever win at the competition.
Nigeria took the lead in the first half through Semi Ajayi, but Tanzania responded positively after the break when Charles M’Mombwa scored the equaliser in the 50th minute. Their hopes were short-lived, though, as Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s advantage moments later with the winning goal.
Tanzania continued to push for a second equaliser and nearly found it late on, but Ibrahim Hamad fired a volley wide from a corner kick. The Super Eagles eventually held on to secure all three points.
Despite the result, Gamondi praised his players for exceeding expectations against one of Africa’s strongest teams. He noted that while Nigeria enjoyed more possession, Tanzania executed their tactical plan well and limited clear chances, with most threats coming from individual brilliance.
The Taifa Stars will now turn their focus to their next Group C fixture against regional rivals Uganda on Saturday, before concluding their group campaign against Tunisia next Tuesday
