The Super Eagles took the lead midway through the first half when Semi Ajayi powered home a header in the 36th minute. The defender connected brilliantly with a well-weighted cross from Alex Iwobi, capping a period of sustained pressure and sending Nigeria into the interval with a deserved advantage.
Tanzania returned from the break with greater intensity and briefly thought they had been punished when Victor Osimhen put the ball in the net, only for the effort to be chalked off for offside.
Undeterred, the East Africans pushed on and were rewarded soon after, drawing level in the 50th minute through Charles M’Mombwa, who finished confidently after being set up by Novatus Miroshi.
The equaliser, however, was short-lived. Just two minutes later, Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s lead with a composed strike, once again following a clever assist from the impressive Iwobi, whose creativity stood out throughout the encounter. The goal helped Nigeria regain control as they calmly managed the remainder of the contest despite Tanzania’s pressing.
Head coach Eric Chelle made changes before the hour mark, introducing Moses Simon and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru to inject energy into the side. Later on, Paul Onuachu came on for Osimhen to help close out the match.
Tanzania also rang the changes, bringing on Denis Kibu, Kelvin John and Haji Mnoga as coach Miguel Ángel Gamondi searched for a late response. Nigeria, however, remained resolute, defending intelligently and controlling the tempo until the final whistle.
The victory sees the Super Eagles move to the top of Group C after the opening round, providing a strong foundation ahead of their next clash against Tunisia.