In a commanding display of tactical discipline and clinical finishing, Nigeria’s men’s national team, the Super Eagles defeated Uganda in a 3-1 victory at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, ensuring they claim Group C top spot at the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
Entering the final matchday already assured of qualification to the round of 16 of the 2025 AFCON, Head Coach Éric Chelle opted for a mix of experience and squad rotation.
The decision paid off early in the 28th minute when Paul Onuachu silenced critics by netting his first international goal in four years.
Capitalizing on a precise cross from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, the striker tapped in from close range to put the three-time champions ahead.
The momentum shifted entirely in the second half. In the 56th minute, Uganda’s goalkeeper Jamal Salim was shown a straight red card for a blatant handball outside the area, leaving the “Cranes” vulnerable.
Nigeria took immediate advantage, as midfielder Raphael Onyedika scored a rapid-fire brace in the 62nd and 67th minutes.
While Rogers Mato pulled one back for Uganda in the 75th minute with a clever dink over Francis Uzoho, it was too little, too late.
The victory means the Super Eagles secured all nine points and claimed Group C top spot.
”To win a tournament of this magnitude, it is about the strength of the entire group, not just the starting eleven,” Coach Chelle remarked during the post-match press conference. “Today, Nigeria defeated Uganda because every player understood their role and maintained high intensity.”
The victory marks the fourth time in history (1992, 2006, 2022, and 2025) that Nigeria has completed an AFCON group stage with a 100% win record.
Having secured Group C top spot, Nigeria now looks forward to a Round of 16 clash in Rabat on January 5. They are scheduled to face the third-placed team from either Group B or Group F, carrying the momentum of an eight-goal haul across their first three matches.
