Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has issued a rallying cry ahead of the Super Eagles’ Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 Group C opener against Tanzania, declaring that Tuesday’s clash will be “all about going to war.”

The three-time African champions are determined to begin their campaign with intensity and avoid complacency against the Taifa Stars.

Speaking to Nigerian journalist Kelechi Anyikude, Osimhen—currently playing for Galatasaray—acknowledged his modest return at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire (one goal and one assist in seven matches, as Nigeria finished runners-up) but vowed to deliver more this time. “It’s the first one, and we will give everything. We are not underrating anyone in our group, but I think we’re up there with so many favourites,” he said.

Osimhen emphasised collective ambition: “We’re going to give our all to actualise the dream of trying to win the AFCON. It’s not gonna be easy—we still got a long way to go—so I am positive about this squad.”

The match kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Nigerian time (5:30 p.m. GMT) in Fès, one of the colder host cities in Morocco.

Tanzania’s head coach, Adel Amrouche, has admitted that some of his players are struggling to adapt to the chilly conditions, with daytime highs around 14°C and nighttime lows near 6°C. “We are indeed more adapted to hot and warm temperatures, and some players are suffering a bit from the cold, but we need to adapt. It’s not an excuse; it’s part of the job,” Amrouche said after a training session at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Rabat.

Tanzania are making their fourth AFCON appearance but have never advanced beyond the group stage. Nigeria, meanwhile, are seeking a fourth continental title, having last won in 2013. Group C also features Tunisia (2004 champions) and Uganda, making it a competitive pool despite Nigeria’s status as favourites.

Osimhen’s prolific 2025 club form with Galatasaray—where he has been among Europe’s top scorers—has earned him global acclaim and will be central to Nigeria’s hopes. His leadership and determination reflect the Super Eagles’ broader ambition to reclaim continental glory.