According to a report by Afrik Foot on Thursday November 12, 2026, Nigeria's Super Eagles will be looking to get their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign back on track when they take on Tanzania on Friday, November 13.

Eric Chelle's men head into the encounter under pressure following their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in September. That result came after a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in their opening Group L fixture, leaving Nigeria with plenty of work to do in the remaining matches.

The meeting with Tanzania is particularly important for the Super Eagles, who need a positive result to restore confidence and strengthen their qualification hopes. Although Tanzania are already assured of a place at the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts, Nigeria cannot afford to approach the game without urgency.

Chelle has named a 24-man squad for the double-header, but the absence of Victor Osimhen, Frank Onyeka and Samuel Chukwueze through injury means some players will have to shoulder greater responsibility.

Among those called up, four Super Eagles stars have particularly important reasons to deliver impressive performances against Tanzania.

1. Stanley Nwabali

Stanley Nwabali will be under pressure to deliver a convincing performance against Tanzania after his disappointing outing in Nigeria's previous AFCON qualifying matches.

The Chippa United goalkeeper struggled during the 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau, although the defensive problems that contributed to the loss were not his responsibility alone.

Nwabali has enjoyed considerable support from Nigerian fans since establishing himself as the country's first-choice goalkeeper, particularly following his impressive performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. However, he must continue to justify that confidence with consistent displays.

2. Tochukwu Nnadi

Tochukwu Nnadi has an important opportunity to establish himself in the Super Eagles midfield following his return to the national team.

The 22-year-old midfielder missed Nigeria's September qualifying matches while recovering from a knee injury, but his recent performances at club level have given him another opportunity to impress Chelle.

Nnadi has reportedly made seven appearances for Marseille since returning from injury, including five starts, while recording an impressive 92.2 per cent passing accuracy.

His performance against Lens, where he completed 53 of 54 passes in Marseille's 2-1 victory, further demonstrated his ability to retain possession and contribute to his team's midfield control.

3. Taiwo Awoniyi

Taiwo Awoniyi has another opportunity to remind Nigerians of his qualities as a striker, particularly with Victor Osimhen unavailable for the Tanzania encounter.

The Coventry City forward has endured difficult periods in recent seasons because of injuries, which have affected his consistency and opportunities to establish himself in the Super Eagles.

However, his move to Coventry has provided him with another opportunity to rebuild his confidence and regain momentum.

Awoniyi scored his first Premier League goal for the club in their 3-1 victory over Sunderland on October 31, a result that should give him additional confidence ahead of the international assignment.

4. Tolu Arokodare

Of the four players, Tolu Arokodare arguably has the strongest case to use the Tanzania fixture as a platform to establish himself as an important figure in the Super Eagles attack.

The Ajax forward has reportedly scored 12 goals in 16 appearances across all competitions, making him one of the most exciting attacking options available to Chelle.

His goalscoring form has come at an important time for Nigeria, with Osimhen missing the squad through injury.

Arokodare has the physical presence, aerial ability and movement to cause problems for opposing defenders. He is also growing in confidence in front of goal, something Nigeria desperately need following their disappointing performance against Guinea-Bissau.