Nigeria booked their place in the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Tunisia in a high-stakes Group C clash held at the Stade de Fès on Saturday night. The match, marked by tense moments and dramatic late goals, saw the Super Eagles assert their dominance while also facing a resilient Tunisian fightback.
From the opening whistle, Nigeria looked determined to control the tempo of the game. The Super Eagles pressed high, restricting Tunisia’s ability to build from the back, and dominated possession with purposeful passing and coordinated attacks. Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams spearheaded Nigeria’s offensive efforts, creating multiple chances in the early stages. Osimhen, in particular, came close twice with headers, with one effort ruled out for offside, as Nigeria imposed their authority on the match.
Osimhen breaks deadlock before the interval
Tunisia gradually began to find their rhythm after the half-hour mark but continued to struggle against a disciplined Nigerian backline marshalled expertly by Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had little to do in the first half as Nigeria maintained territorial advantage and created several promising opportunities.
The decisive moment of the first half came just before the interval. In the 44th minute, Ademola Lookman delivered a perfectly weighted cross from the left flank, and Osimhen timed his run to perfection, heading the ball past the Tunisian goalkeeper and giving Nigeria a well-deserved 1-0 lead at half-time. The goal reflected the team’s tactical discipline and clinical execution, setting the stage for a commanding second half.
Ndidi and Lookman put Nigeria in command
Nigeria wasted no time extending their advantage after the break. Just five minutes into the second half, Lookman’s corner found Wilfred Ndidi unmarked in the box, and the midfielder powered a precise header into the net to double the Super Eagles’ lead. The goal demonstrated Nigeria’s aerial strength and tactical awareness, putting the team in a strong position to secure victory.
Ademola Lookman then completed his influential performance in the 67th minute. Following an intricate passing exchange with Osimhen, Lookman showcased composure and precision, finishing low past the Tunisian goalkeeper to make it 3-0. At this stage, Nigeria appeared in full control, with momentum firmly in their favor, and the crowd began to celebrate what seemed to be a comfortable victory.
Late Tunisia rally falls short
However, Tunisia sparked drama in the closing stages of the match. In the 75th minute, Hannibal Mejbri’s cleverly delivered free-kick was met by Montassar Talbi, who headed it into the net, pulling a goal back for the Carthage Eagles. The pressure intensified when VAR reviewed a handball by Bright Osayi-Samuel, resulting in a penalty converted by Ali Abdi in the 86th minute to make the scoreline 3-2.
The last minutes were tense, as Tunisia pressed aggressively in search of an equalizer. Despite waves of pressure and nervous moments in stoppage time, Nigeria’s defense remained resolute. Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Stanley Nwabali combined to manage the closing moments effectively, ensuring the Super Eagles preserved the crucial three points.
The victory elevates Nigeria to six points from two matches, confirming their qualification for the knockout phase as leaders of Group C. Tunisia, on three points, must now secure a result against Tanzania to stay in contention, while Nigeria will conclude their group stage campaign against Uganda in a match that will determine final standings but not affect their progression.
The Super Eagles’ performance showcased their attacking prowess, tactical discipline, and ability to manage high-pressure situations. With Osimhen’s goals, Ndidi’s commanding midfield presence, and Lookman’s creativity, Nigeria has positioned itself as a formidable contender heading into the knockout rounds of AFCON 2025, giving fans plenty of reason to be optimistic about the team’s chances of lifting the trophy.