“We Played Better Against Nigeria,” Says Gamondi

Tanzania coach Miguel Gamondi has said he was encouraged by his team’s performance despite a 2-1 defeat to Nigeria on Tuesday.

Appointed just a month before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Gamondi oversaw Tanzania’s 10th match in the tournament, with the team yet to record a win.

Semilogo Ajayi had given Nigeria a first-half lead, but Charles M’Mombwa levelled for Tanzania in the 50th minute. Any hopes of a comeback were short-lived, however, as Ademola Lookman quickly restored Nigeria’s advantage with the decisive goal.

Tanzania pressed for a late equaliser and came close when Ibrahim Hamad volleyed wide from a corner in the closing stages, but the Super Eagles held on to secure the win.

“We Played Better Against Nigeria,” Says Gamondi Credit: Dailypost.ng

Despite the defeat, Gamondi praised his players for exceeding expectations against Nigeria.

“I think Tanzania played better than many people expected. Nigeria had a lot of possession, but we neutralised them well through our tactical system.

“They did create chances, but most of them came from individual quality, which is not surprising. Overall, I believe we surprised a lot of people with the quality of our performance against Nigeria.”

The Taifa Stars will regroup and look to keep their hopes alive against regional rivals Uganda on Saturday, before wrapping up their group-stage campaign against Tunisia next Tuesday.