Nigeria’s 2–1 victory over Tanzania in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group C opener was underpinned by a commanding display from Semi Ajayi, whose all-round performance earned him the official Man of the Match award from CAF and set the platform for the Super Eagles’ winning start, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Ajayi opened the scoring in the 36th minute, rising highest to glance Alex Iwobi’s corner into the far corner after sustained Nigerian pressure. It was the centre-back’s only attempt of the match, but it proved decisive, with his single shot also his only effort on target.

Speaking after the match, Ajayi said, “It is an amazing feeling. It is always special to score for your country, especially in a game like this where it helped us get off to a really good start. I was very pleased.”

He added that the team were already focused on correcting key areas, stating, “We are aware of the areas where we need to do better, particularly in seeing out games and killing teams off. We will be working very hard on the training pitch to put that right.”

Beyond the goal, Ajayi delivered a performance that highlighted his influence at both ends of the pitch. Defensively, he completed five tackles, winning two of them, made two interceptions and registered two clearances. He also blocked one shot, recorded four recoveries and was not dribbled past at any point in the contest.

Ajayi dominated his duels, winning all three of his ground contests and all three aerial challenges, providing stability as Tanzania pushed for an equaliser, particularly in the closing stages when Nigeria were forced to defend deep.

The 31-year-old said the display reflected the collective responsibility within the squad.

“It shows that we are one team. We cannot rely only on the attackers to score goals. We need contributions from all over the pitch. Defenders and midfielders also have to chip in if we want to do well in the tournament,” he said.

In possession, he was equally assured. Ajayi completed 58 of his 64 passes for a 91 per cent success rate, including 98 per cent accuracy in his own half. He also completed eight of 13 passes in the opposition half, attempted eight long balls with four finding their target and finished the match with 73 touches, losing possession only eight times.

Tanzania briefly levelled the match early in the second half through Charles M’Mombwa, but Nigeria responded swiftly when Ademola Lookman struck from outside the box to restore their lead. From there, Ajayi marshalled the defence as the Taifa Stars sought a way back into the game.

Despite the positive start, Ajayi admitted there was room for improvement, saying, “I am glad we got off to a good start. There are a few things we can iron out and improve, but there are also a lot of positives we can take from the game.”

Late pressure included a gilt-edged chance for Ibrahim Hamad, who fired over from close range, but Nigeria held firm to secure all three points and begin their campaign with a victory.

The performance reinforced the growing confidence within the Super Eagles camp as attention now turns to Saturday’s Group C clash with Tunisia at the same Fez Stadium, with Nigeria continuing their pursuit of a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title.