Nigeria booked their place in the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Tunisia on Saturday, December 27, in their second Group C encounter at the Complexe Sportif de Fes, Morocco.
After missing several early chances, the Super Eagles finally broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time.
Victor Osimhen rose highest to head home a pinpoint cross from Ademola Lookman, giving Nigeria a deserved lead heading into the break.
The momentum continued into the second half as captain Wilfred Ndidi doubled Nigeria’s advantage just five minutes after the restart, nodding in Lookman’s in-swinging corner to cap another well-worked set-piece move.
Lookman, who had been instrumental throughout the match, then crowned his outstanding performance with a goal of his own in the 67th minute.
After receiving a pass from Osimhen, the Atalanta forward calmly finished to put Nigeria firmly in control at 3–0.
Tunisia, however, refused to go down quietly. Montassar Talbi pulled one back in the 74th minute with a header, before Ali Abdi converted a late penalty in the 87th minute to set up a tense finale.
Despite the late pressure, Nigeria held their nerve to see out the contest and claim their second consecutive win of the tournament, confirming their place in the AFCON 2025 round of 16.
The Super Eagles had earlier defeated Tanzania 2–1 in their opening group match, giving them six points from two games. With qualification now secured, Nigeria will face Uganda in their final Group C match on Tuesday, December 30, with the opportunity to rotate their squad.
Tunisia, meanwhile, are left with a must-win encounter against Tanzania on the same day as they fight to keep their knockout hopes alive.
Nigeria book AFCON 2025 knockout spot with hard-fought 3-2 victory over Tunisia
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Story by Xavier Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
