Tanzania manager Miguel Gamondi has lauded Nigeria's Ademola Lookman after the 28-year-old's decisive strike sealed a 2-1 victory for the Super Eagles in their Group C Africa Cup of Nations opener on Tuesday night in Fez, Morocco.

Lookman restored Nigeria's lead shortly after Charles M'Mombwa had equalized following Semi Ajayi's first-half opener for the Super Eagles.

The Atalanta forward executed a clever dummy to evade defenders before unleashing a left-footed strike from the edge of the box that found the back of the net.

Speaking after the match, Gamondi described Lookman's goal as a moment of individual brilliance.

"Luckily they scored very quickly. They scored from an individual action. A great quality from one of the best players in the world," he said. 

Reflecting on his team's performance, the Argentine coach acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in defending set-pieces and capitalizing on goal opportunities.

"Our plan is to improve our game, try to improve, try to see how we want improve especially defending and set pieces, and try to be more realistic in the goal situation," he said.  

"But we need to continue to believe in ourselves, a little bit more tactical work to play together. I cannot say desperately but we are very anxious to win a game." 

He also praised his squad's effort and discipline, noting the strong defensive organization in the second half.

"I expected to do a very good performance, I believe and trust but today I think they did more than I expected. The players they played with great commitment and tactical discipline was the key as well.

"Our defensive organization was very good. In the first half, we didn't do well like we did in the second half is to switch the attacking point," he added.  

Gamondi admitted that conceding from a corner was unfortunate but expressed satisfaction with the overall display against a high-quality Nigerian side.

"Unluckily, we conceded this corner from a distraction, it was a mistake but really, I'm more than happy to have this performance again. I think a high team like Nigeria," he concluded.

Ahead of their next Group C clash against Tunisia, the Super Eagles will be eager to secure a win over the Carthage Eagles to strengthen their chances of finishing atop the group.

Adeyemi Adewale