By Palang Paul
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have qualified for the Round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following a thrilling 3–2 victory over Tunisia in their Group C clash at Fez Stadium on Saturday.
The three-time African champions raced into a commanding 3–0 lead, thanks to goals from Victor Osimhen, captain Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman, appearing to have sealed a comfortable win before Tunisia mounted a late fightback.
Tunisia pulled two goals back through Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi, setting up a nervy finale.
The Carthage Eagles came close to equalising during seven minutes of added time, but efforts from captain Ferjani Sassi and substitute Ismael Gharbi narrowly missed the target.
With the win, Nigeria move to six points at the top of Group C, while Tunisia remain on three points.
Tanzania and Uganda each have one point ahead of the final group matches scheduled for Tuesday.
Osimhen was outstanding throughout the contest, dominating aerial battles and constantly troubling the Tunisian defence.
The Galatasaray striker had an early header ruled out for offside before finally opening the scoring just before halftime, rising to meet a precise cross from Lookman.
Nigeria doubled their advantage shortly after the break when Ndidi headed home from a Lookman corner, marking his first international goal.
Lookman then capped a brilliant performance by scoring the third goal in the 67th minute after being set up by Osimhen.
Tunisia responded late in the game, with Talbi heading in from a free kick before Abdi converted a penalty following a VAR review for handball against Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Despite the late pressure, Nigeria held firm to claim victory and confirm their place in the knockout stage. The encounter marked the seventh AFCON meeting between the two sides, with Nigeria now recording three wins against Tunisia in the competition.
The Super Eagles will look to maintain their momentum as they prepare for their final group match and the challenges ahead in the tournament.
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