Alex Iwobi Matches Mikel’s 12-Year-Old AFCON Record In Super Eagles Win Over Tanzania

Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi made history on Tuesday night, equalling a 12-year-old record held by former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel, as Nigeria beat Tanzania 2-1 in their opening 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) clash.

Alex Iwobi, partnering Wilfred Ndidi in midfield, proved pivotal for the Super Eagles, registering two decisive assists that shaped the outcome of the game. His first came in the opening half when he delivered a perfectly timed cross that found defender Semi Ajayi, who rose above the defence to head Nigeria into the lead.

Tanzania’s Charles M’Mombwa briefly levelled the score early in the second half, but Iwobi’s vision remained on full display. He threaded a precise pass to Ademola Lookman, who converted with composure to secure the winning goal.

Opta statisticians confirmed that Iwobi is now the second Nigerian since 2010 to provide two assists in a single AFCON match, matching the feat last achieved by Mikel against Mali in February 2013, the year Nigeria lifted their third AFCON trophy.

The win places the Super Eagles of Nigeria second in Group C, level on points with Tunisia but trailing on goal difference. Recall that the Eagles of Carthage beat Uganda 3-1 on Tuesday night to go top.