Super Eagles Defeat Tunisia 3–2 to Seal Round of 16 Spot

Nigeria’s Super Eagles booked their place in the Round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging Tunisia 3–2 in a dramatic Group C encounter at the Fez Stadium on Saturday.

The three-time African champions appeared to be cruising after racing into a 3–0 lead, but a late Tunisian fightback turned the contest into a tense finish before Nigeria held on for all three points.

Victor Osimhen opened the scoring late in the first half, rising highest to power home a header from Ademola Lookman’s cross. Nigeria doubled their advantage shortly after the restart when captain Wilfred Ndidi headed in from a corner, before Lookman capped a dominant spell with a well-taken third goal midway through the second half.

Tunisia, however, refused to go quietly. Montassar Talbi pulled one back with a headed effort from a free-kick, before Ali Abdi converted a late penalty following a VAR review for handball against Bright Osayi-Samuel.

Despite sustained pressure in added time, including two near misses from Ferjani Sassi and Ismael Gharbi, the Carthage Eagles were unable to force an equaliser.

Nigeria Through, Group Still Open

The result takes Nigeria to six points from two matches, guaranteeing their passage to the knockout stage. Tunisia remain on three points, while Tanzania and Uganda sit on one point each ahead of the final round of group games on Tuesday.

The victory also marked Nigeria’s third win over Tunisia in seven AFCON meetings, further underlining their historical edge in the rivalry.

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After a laboured opening win against Tanzania, the Super Eagles showed marked improvement, with Osimhen’s aerial dominance, Lookman’s creativity, and Ndidi’s leadership proving decisive in a high-quality contest.

Nigeria will now turn their attention to the final group match, aiming to secure top spot and carry momentum into the knockout phase.