Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has equalled a 12-year-old record held by former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel following Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Tanzania on Tuesday night in Morocco.

Operating in midfield alongside Wilfred Ndidi, Iwobi delivered two crucial assists that proved decisive in Nigeria’s opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The former Arsenal midfielder set up the first goal with a perfectly measured cross that found defender Semi Ajayi, who headed home to give Nigeria the lead in the first half.

After Tanzania’s Charles M'Mombwa levelled the score early in the second half, Iwobi once again rose to the occasion, threading a smart pass to Ademola Lookman, who fired in the winner moments later.

According to the statisticians at Opta, Iwobi is now the second Nigerian player on record since 2010 to provide two assists in a single Africa Cup of Nations match, matching the feat last achieved by John Obi Mikel against Mali in February 2013, the year Nigeria secured their third AFCON title.

The victory places Nigeria second in Group C, level on points with Tunisia but behind on goal difference.

With a crucial fixture against the Carthage Eagles up next, Chelle will hope Iwobi maintains his impressive form as the Super Eagles aim to secure early qualification and strengthen their bid to finish as group leaders.

Meanwhile, Iwobi will also aim to emulate Mikel’s 2013 success by helping Nigeria clinch a fourth AFCON title, especially after the team finished as runners-up in the previous edition.

Adeyemi Adewale