AFCON 2025: Yakubu Aiyegbeni names two most impressive Super Eagles players against Tanzania

Former Super Eagles striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has praised the impact of Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze following Nigeria’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opener.

Goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman ensured the three-time African champions started their campaign with maximum points on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after the match in Fez, Yakubu highlighted the immense pressure on the team following their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, noting that the opening fixture of any major tournament is never straightforward.

“The most important we got the three points today. They're going to be under pressure because not qualifying for the World Cup and they lost there, and our first game after not qualifying, you know, first game in AFCON is always very difficult,” Yakubu said.

“The most important we got the three points today and let's look forward for the next game. Need to work hard and fight as a team.

Yakubu reserved special praise for the duo of Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi, who he felt provided the necessary spark to unlock the Tanzanian defence and provide service for Victor Osimhen.

“You have in Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi, and so far so good, you know. Better than they try to create chances and they create some chances for Osimhen and is just unlucky today, you know, but we still need creative midfield.

"However, the midfield today with Chukwueze, I think he did very well today.”