Nigeria completed a flawless group-stage campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a convincing 3–1 victory over Uganda, underlining their status as one of the tournament’s most efficient teams.
Already assured of qualification before kick-off, the Super Eagles combined squad rotation with clinical execution to finish Group C with maximum points, carrying strong momentum into the knockout rounds.
Tactical Rotation, Same Ruthless Edge
Head coach Eric Chelle made several changes but maintained Nigeria’s aggressive structure. The Super Eagles lined up in an attacking 4-4-2, pairing Victor Osimhen with Paul Onuachu, while Ryan Alebiosu made his debut start at right-back.
Despite the rotation, Nigeria controlled possession, pressed intelligently, and capitalised on key moments.
Uganda Start Brightly
Uganda, needing a win to stay in contention, began with urgency. They pressed high and caused early problems through Mutyaba’s midfield control and Mato’s deliveries from wide areas. Nigeria absorbed the pressure before gradually asserting dominance.
Onuachu Opens the Scoring
The breakthrough arrived in the 28th minute. After missing an earlier opportunity, Paul Onuachu finished from close range following a composed assist from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, shifting momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favour.
Red Card Turns the Tide
Uganda’s hopes suffered a major blow early in the second half when goalkeeper Jamal Salim was sent off for handling outside the penalty area while attempting to stop Osimhen through on goal. Reduced to ten men, Uganda lost control of the match.
Onyedika Brace Seals It
Nigeria quickly took advantage. Raphael Onyedika doubled the lead in the 62nd minute, calmly finishing after being set up by Samuel Chukwueze. Just five minutes later, he completed his brace—again assisted by Chukwueze—to make it 3–0 and effectively end the contest.
Uganda pulled one back through Mato, who finished neatly after a pass from Okello, but the goal proved little more than consolation.
Perfect Record, Eyes on the Knockouts
The win confirmed Nigeria’s top spot in Group C with nine points, marking only the second time the Super Eagles have completed an AFCON group stage with a 100 percent record.
Tunisia finished second in the group after a draw with Tanzania.
With confidence high and form peaking, Nigeria now turn their focus to the AFCON knockout stage, firmly positioned as one of the tournament favourites.
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