Yakubu Aiyegbeni Praises Iwobi Chukwueze After Super Eagles’ Narrow Win Over Tanzania

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Nigeria’s narrow victory over Tanzania in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has drawn praise from former Super Eagles striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni, who singled out Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze for their influential performances.

The former Everton forward noted that both players played decisive roles in helping Nigeria overcome a determined Tanzanian side, whose resilience made the encounter far more competitive than many expected.

From the early stages of the match, Nigeria showed attacking intent, but the breakthrough required creativity and composure in midfield. According to Aiyegbeni, the ability of certain players to step forward and take responsibility proved vital in ensuring the Super Eagles secured all three points.

One of the standout performers on the night was Alex Iwobi, whose influence in midfield helped Nigeria maintain control of the game’s tempo. The Fulham star displayed impressive awareness and composure while distributing the ball across the pitch.

His contribution became even more significant when he delivered the corner that led to Nigeria’s opening goal. Defender Semi Ajayi rose highest to convert the set-piece, but the precise delivery from Iwobi made the opportunity possible.

Beyond the assist, Iwobi’s performance reflected his growing maturity within the national team setup. He consistently linked Nigeria’s midfield and attack, ensuring the team remained organised while pushing forward.

Samuel Chukwueze also made a strong impression during the match, using his pace and dribbling ability to challenge the Tanzanian defence throughout the first half.

The AC Milan winger repeatedly forced defenders into difficult situations and nearly added his name to the scoresheet before he was later replaced by Moses Simon in the second half.

Speaking about the performance, Aiyegbeni emphasised how important the attacking creativity of players like Iwobi and Chukwueze is to Nigeria’s style of play.

During an interview with News Central TV, the former striker explained that both players have the vision and confidence needed to support Nigeria’s forward line.

He also pointed out that their ability to create opportunities for striker Victor Osimhen remains a crucial element in Nigeria’s attacking strategy, even though the Napoli forward was unable to convert chances during the match.

Aiyegbeni remarked that while Osimhen appeared unlucky in front of goal, the team’s attacking structure looked promising thanks to the supply coming from midfield and the wings.

The performance further reinforced Iwobi’s status as one of the most experienced members of the current Super Eagles squad. With over ninety international appearances and ten goals to his name, he has become one of the key figures guiding the team in major tournaments.

Chukwueze, meanwhile, continues to establish himself as a vital attacking option for Nigeria. His ability to stretch opposition defences with speed and creativity adds another dimension to the team’s offensive play.

Having already earned more than fifty caps and scored several goals for the national side, the winger’s growing confidence suggests he will remain an important part of Nigeria’s campaign.

Commentary and Analysis

Yakubu Aiyegbeni’s praise highlights a broader shift in the Super Eagles’ playing style, where creativity and movement from midfield and the wings play a central role in supporting the main striker.

Alex Iwobi’s evolution into a midfield leader has been particularly significant. His ability to control possession and initiate attacks provides balance for the team, allowing Nigeria to transition smoothly between defence and offence.

Samuel Chukwueze’s pace and unpredictability also remain valuable assets. Against teams that defend deep, his dribbling and ability to take on defenders can create openings that change the outcome of matches.

If the Super Eagles continue to receive this level of contribution from their creative players, they could become one of the most dangerous attacking sides in the tournament as the AFCON campaign progresses.