Nigeria and Tanzania are level at 1-1 at half-time in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Friday.

The Super Eagles took an early lead through Alhassan Yusuf, who scored in the second minute after being set up by Ademola Lookman.

However, Tanzania restored parity in the 32nd minute when Alphonce Msanga found the net, with N. Miroshi providing the assist.

Nigeria are seeking a return to winning ways after suffering a 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in September, having started their Group L campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar.

Head coach Eric Chelle is without striker Victor Osimhen, who is recovering from knee surgery, and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who is also unavailable.

Tanzania, who have already secured qualification for the 2027 tournament as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda, are still competing in the qualifiers and seeking their first Group L victory.

Nigeria’s starting line-up features Benjamin Fredrick alongside Calvin Bassey in central defence, while Wilfred Ndidi captains the team. Tochukwu Nnadi also makes his home debut for the Super Eagles, with Akor Adams leading the attack.

Nigeria came close to restoring their lead in the first half, but Lookman’s effort inside the box was blocked by the Tanzanian defence in the 38th minute. His earlier free kick was also cleared.

Yusuf received a yellow card in the 12th minute, while Tanzania had an effort go wide in the 29th minute.

The referee added five minutes at the end of the first half as both sides went into the break level. The return fixture is scheduled for Tuesday, November 17, in Zanzibar.

Nigeria starting XI: Stanley Nwabali, Ola Aina, Abdullahi Bewene, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi (captain), Alhassan Yusuf, Alex Iwobi, Tochukwu Nnadi, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams.

Tanzania starting XI: Aishi Manula, Mligo, Mwamnyeto, Hamad, Mnoga, Miroshi, Mao, Msanga, Chilambo, Kachwele and Kibu.