Super Eagles forward, Akor Adams, has said the team will complete the job against Tanzania in Zanzibar, after the 3-1 win in Uyo gave the squad confidence and motivation for the return leg.
Adams told Footy-Africa that Tanzania were a difficult test, but he was pleased that Nigeria got the job done.
“It was a very tough game against a good opponent, but I am happy our aim was achieved as we got all three points against a very tough side. All games are difficult, and this was no different. We had to find a way to break them down, and I am glad it worked out well,” he said.
He said the squad was determined to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. “We have to look at the positives and take them into the next game. I was a bit unlucky with the end result, but there are a lot of good things to take from the game. The team is committed to qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations. We must make the AFCON. It is what I want and what the entire team wants.”
“This result is a morale booster, and we will now travel to Tanzania to complete the job. We must be at the next AFCON,” he added.
The Venezia forward started on Friday and had a few chances to score, but could not convert them.
Nigeria made a bright start at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, with Alhassan Yusuf finishing a swift counter-attack after Ademola Lookman found him in the box. Tanzania levelled in the 32nd minute when Alphonce Msanga punished a mistake in midfield involving Wilfred Ndidi.
The Super Eagles returned from the break with more intensity. Substitute Tolu Arokodare restored the lead in the 52nd minute, flicking home a pass from captain Ndidi. The Ajax forward made it 3-1 eight minutes later, slotting past the goalkeeper after a defender failed to deal with a pull-back from fellow substitute Moses Usor.
The Super Eagles face Tanzania again in Zanzibar on Tuesday, November 17, knowing another win will strengthen their bid to qualify.