Image Source: BBC
Nigeria vs Tanzania produced an absorbing 1-1 draw in the Africa Cup of Nations qualification Group L encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Friday, 13 November 2026. Nigeria made a fast start, but Tanzania responded impressively to earn a share of the points in a closely contested match.
The live match report listed the game as in progress, with both sides level after goals from A. Yusuf and A. Msanga. Nigeria controlled much of the possession, yet Tanzania showed enough attacking threat to prevent the hosts from turning their dominance into a decisive advantage.
Powerful Start for Nigeria vs Tanzania
Nigeria needed only two minutes to break the deadlock. A. Yusuf finished an early move created by A. Lookman, giving the home side the perfect opening at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
The early goal appeared to settle Nigeria, who circulated the ball confidently and pushed Tanzania back. However, Tanzania remained organised and looked dangerous whenever they found space in midfield. Their persistence was rewarded in the 32nd minute when A. Msanga equalised, with N. Miroshi credited with the assist.
The equaliser changed the mood of the contest. Nigeria continued to see more of the ball, but Tanzania’s defensive effort and willingness to compete in the midfield ensured the visitors remained firmly in the match.
Key Match Stats Reveal Nigeria’s Control
According to the BBC match statistics, Nigeria held 73.9% possession compared with Tanzania’s 26.1%. The Super Eagles also completed 307 passes, well ahead of Tanzania’s 109, while recording an 87.6% passing accuracy.
- Nigeria possession: 73.9%
- Tanzania possession: 26.1%
- Nigeria shots: 4
- Tanzania shots: 4
- Nigeria shots on target: 2
- Tanzania shots on target: 1
- Nigeria corners: 3
- Tanzania corners: 0
Despite Nigeria’s territorial advantage, both teams recorded four shots. Tanzania also made the most of its limited opportunities, while Nigeria’s goalkeeper, S. Nwabali, was not required to make a save in the match statistics provided.
The figures underline the central story of the game: Nigeria controlled the rhythm, but Tanzania remained efficient and disciplined enough to keep the score level.
Lineups, Substitutions and Disciplinary Details
Nigeria manager Éric Chelle selected a 4-4-2 formation, with S. Nwabali in goal and O. Aina, C. Bassey, B. Fredrick and A. Bewene forming the defence. W. Ndidi captained the team from midfield alongside T. Nnadi, A. Iwobi and A. Yusuf.
A. Lookman partnered A. Adams in attack. Yusuf was booked in the 12th minute, while M. Simon replaced Lookman in the 48th minute, according to the match information.
Tanzania manager Miguel Gamondi also used a 4-4-2 system. A. Manula started in goal behind A. Mligo, I. Hamad, B. Mwamnyeto and H. Mnoga. H. Mao captained the side, with N. Miroshi, A. Msanga, N. Chilambo and H. Mao supporting strikers C. Kachwele and K. Denis.
What the Draw Means for Group L
The match carried important consequences in Group L. The table shown in the live coverage listed Guinea-Bissau top, Nigeria second with four points, Tanzania third with two points and Madagascar fourth with two points.
Nigeria’s home advantage and greater possession suggested the hosts had hoped to claim all three points. Instead, Tanzania’s comeback leaves the qualification picture finely balanced. Every remaining result could prove significant as the teams compete for a place in the final tournament.
For Nigeria, the draw will feel frustrating after taking an early lead and dominating the ball. For Tanzania, recovering from Yusuf’s second-minute goal represents a valuable show of resilience. Msanga’s equaliser ensured the visitors stayed competitive and avoided a damaging defeat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Nigeria vs Tanzania score?
The live match report listed Nigeria and Tanzania level at 1-1. A. Yusuf scored for Nigeria after two minutes, while A. Msanga equalised in the 32nd minute for Tanzania.
Who scored for Nigeria?
A. Yusuf scored Nigeria’s opening goal in the second minute, assisted by A. Lookman.
Who scored Tanzania’s equaliser?
A. Msanga scored Tanzania’s equaliser in the 32nd minute, with N. Miroshi providing the assist.
Where was the match played?
The fixture was played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
What was Nigeria’s possession?
Nigeria had 73.9% possession, compared with Tanzania’s 26.1%, according to the match statistics provided.
