SEMI Ajayi was voted the Man of the Match of the Morocco 2025 Africa Cup of Nations clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and Tanzania in Fez on Tuesday night.
The Hull City centre-back scored the opening goal for the Super Eagles with a fine header in their 2-1 Group C victory and produced a generally impressive display.
Ajayi struck in the 36th minute off a glorious Alex Iwobi cross before Tanzania levelled up five minutes into the second half through Charles M’Mombwa.
Ademola Lookman restored the Super Eagles’ lead just two minutes after the equaliser with a powerful shot off his weaker left foot as the three-time AFCON champions began their quest with victory.
Ajayi, 31, was not only impressive for his goal — his second for the Super Eagles in 48 appearances and his first in 10 AFCON games — the towering defender was also outstanding at the back.
His centre-back partnership with Calvin Bassey kept out the Tanzanians and restricted then to just the one goal.
Ajayi’s key role in the Super Eagles victory earned him the votes for the Man of the Match prize.