Nigeria continued their impressive run at the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Uganda 3–1 in their final Group C match on Tuesday, sealing a flawless group-stage campaign.

Already qualified for the knockout phase, the Super Eagles made several changes to their starting lineup in Fes, with Victor Osimhen wearing the captain’s armband. Despite the rotation, Nigeria were dominant and finished the group with maximum points from three matches.

Paul Onuachu opened the scoring in the first half, ending a four-year international goal drought for the towering forward. His breakthrough came after a well-worked move down the left, highlighting Nigeria’s depth and attacking quality.

The game swung decisively in Nigeria’s favour shortly after the break when Uganda were reduced to 10 men. Substitute goalkeeper Salim Magoola was sent off for handling the ball outside his penalty area while attempting to stop an Osimhen effort, forcing Uganda to introduce a third goalkeeper in a chaotic moment for Paul Put’s side.

Raphael Onyedika then took control of the contest. The Club Brugge midfielder struck twice within five minutes, converting passes from Samuel Chukwueze to put the result beyond doubt. His brace underlined Nigeria’s midfield strength as they cruised toward another AFCON group-stage clean sweep, their fourth in history after 1992, 2006 and 2022.

Uganda managed a late consolation through Rogers Mato, who capitalised on a brief lapse in the Nigerian defence, but the goal did little to change the outcome. Uganda exited the tournament bottom of Group C with just one point.

Nigeria, runners-up at the previous Africa Cup of Nations, now turn their attention to the Round of 16, where they will face a third-placed team from either Group B or Group F on 5 January.

Tunisia and Tanzania Progress From Group C

In the group’s other fixture, Tunisia drew 1–1 with Tanzania, a result that secured Tunisia’s place in the knockout stages as group runners-up. Tanzania, meanwhile, advanced as one of the four best third-placed teams, marking their first AFCON knockout qualification in 45 years.

Tunisia took the lead late in the first half through an Ismaël Gharbi penalty, but Feisal Salum’s powerful strike early in the second period earned Tanzania a historic point. Although it was only their second point of the tournament, it proved sufficient for progression.

Tunisia will face Mali in the Round of 16, while Tanzania are set for a daunting clash against tournament hosts Morocco.

As the knockout stage approaches, Nigeria’s commanding group performance has positioned them as one of the favourites, sending a strong message to the rest of the continent.