Nigeria warned against underestimating Tanzania in 2027 AFCON qualifiers

Nigeria have been urged to treat Tanzania as a serious threat when the teams meet in a two-match 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying tie.

Former Nigeria international Ifeanyi Udeze says the Super Eagles face a difficult Group L double-header, despite Tanzania sitting bottom of the section after the opening two matches.

Nigeria are second with three points, while Tanzania have collected one point. The first meeting will take place on Friday, November 13 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, with the return fixture scheduled for November 17.

“It won’t be easy against Tanzania,” Udeze said on BRILA FM. “It will be tough and I hope they will not underrate Tanzania.”

The former defender, who won bronze medals with Nigeria at the 2002 and 2004 Africa Cup of Nations, also criticised the delayed arrival of some members of the squad at camp.

He said the situation raised questions about the players’ approach to the qualifiers, while stressing the importance of securing all three points.

“What is painful to me is that some players are yet to arrive camp, with such attitude how are we sure they are taking this game serious,” Udeze said.

“I just wish them all the best and hope they get the three points.”

Nigeria will have to manage the tie without two of their leading forwards, with Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze ruled out through injury.

There is also uncertainty over the availability of Hull City defender Semi Ajayi. He was forced off after suffering a knock during last weekend’s Premier League match against Arsenal at Emirates Stadium.

The two fixtures provide both teams with an opportunity to improve their position in Group L, with Nigeria currently holding second place and Tanzania seeking their first win of the qualifying campaign.