Former Nigeria international Ben Iroha has cautioned the Super Eagles against underestimating Tanzania's Taifa Stars ahead of Friday's crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Iroha stressed that securing victory in the encounter is essential to Nigeria's ambition of qualifying for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Speaking to Completesports.com from his base in Texas, United States, on Wednesday, the former defender said the Super Eagles must approach the match with determination following their disappointing defeat to Guinea-Bissau.

“After the Super Eagles’ defeat to Guinea-Bissau, a result that jolted our qualification hopes in Group L, it’s important that we get the three points against Tanzania on Friday,” Iroha told Completesports.com.

He urged the players to show commitment, fight for every ball and avoid complacency against the East Africans.

“The players should be determined and fight for every ball because victory against Tanzania is crucial to our quest to secure the sole 2027 AFCON ticket from the group.

“Granted, Tanzania are not on the same pedestal as Nigeria when it comes to football, but things are changing. There are no more minnows in the game. Other countries are catching up fast, so the belief that Tanzania cannot beat the Super Eagles no longer holds.

“Did you ever think Guinea-Bissau would beat the Super Eagles in the last match? That’s part of the reason the Super Eagles should roll up their sleeves and fight for maximum points,” he added.

Friday's encounter will be the 19th meeting between Nigeria and Tanzania across all competitions.

The Super Eagles have enjoyed a favourable record in their last eight meetings, winning five matches, while the remaining three ended in draws.

Nigeria have scored 11 goals in those encounters, compared to the three goals managed by the Taifa Stars.

Despite the historical advantage, Iroha believes the Nigerian players must remain focused and avoid allowing past results to influence their approach to the match.

The Super Eagles face an important challenge in Group L following their 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau, which complicated their qualification campaign.

At the time of the reported standings, Guinea-Bissau occupied the top position with six points from two matches, while Nigeria were second with three points. Madagascar and Tanzania had one point each, with the Taifa Stars occupying bottom place on goal difference.

With only one qualification ticket available to the remaining teams, Nigeria will be under pressure to collect maximum points from their double-header against Tanzania.

The 2027 AFCON will make history as the first edition of the competition to be jointly hosted by three countries — Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

The tournament is scheduled to run from June 19 to July 17, 2027, with the Super Eagles determined to avoid missing out on another continental championship.