Nigeria wrapped up the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in emphatic fashion, sealing a flawless run with a convincing 3–1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday night at the Fez Stadium in Morocco.
The Super Eagles, already assured of qualification, showed their intent early and were rewarded in the 28th minute. Paul Onuachu opened the scoring with a simple close-range finish after meeting a teasing low cross from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. The goal capped off a dominant first-half display, as Nigeria’s pace and movement repeatedly unsettled a Ugandan side struggling to keep up.
Uganda’s night went from bad to worse shortly after the restart. In the 56th minute, their substitute goalkeeper was shown a red card for handling the ball outside the penalty area while attempting to stop a goal-bound strike from Victor Osimhen.
Sensing blood, Nigeria raised the tempo and doubled their lead in the 62nd minute. Samuel Chukwueze drove down the flank before cutting the ball back into the box for Raphael Onyedika, who controlled expertly and calmly slotted into the bottom left corner.
Just five minutes later, Onyedika struck again. Latching onto another Chukwueze cut-back after a slick attacking move involving Onuachu, the midfielder fired a low shot from the edge of the area into the bottom right corner to put the game beyond doubt.
Uganda managed a consolation goal in the 75th minute when substitute Okello released Mato, who delicately chipped the ball over Francis Uzoho. However, the late strike did little to threaten a comeback, as Nigeria comfortably saw out the match.
The victory ensured Nigeria finished top of Group C with a perfect nine points from three matches. Uganda, meanwhile, ended the group stage at the bottom and bowed out of the competition.
In the group’s other fixture, Tanzania staged a spirited fightback to draw with Tunisia, a result that sent both teams into the knockout stage. Tunisia secured second place with four points, while Tanzania progressed as one of the four best third-placed teams with two points, edging out Angola on goals scored.
