Nigeria Qualifies for AFCON Knockouts After Thrilling Win Over Tunisia. Fes, Morocco — Nigeria secured their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) knockout stage with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Tunisia in Fes, Morocco.
The Super Eagles, led by Victor Osimhen’s performance, became the second qualifiers for the knockout stage, following Egypt.
In a Group C clash that saw Tunisia mount a spirited comeback, Nigeria led 3-0 through goals from Osimhen, captain Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman.
However, Tunisia’s Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi scored late goals to set up a tense finish. Despite Tunisia’s efforts, Nigeria held on to advance with six points, with Tunisia trailing on three.
The match was the seventh time the Super Eagles and the Carthage Eagles had faced each other at an AFCON. Nigeria emerged victorious three times, with Tunisia winning once. Another two meetings ended in penalty shootouts, each nation securing one victory.
Nigeria’s Osimhen was the standout player, particularly in aerial duels, while Tunisia were forced to defend against the three-time champions throughout the match.
The Galatasaray striker, known for his trademark mask, came close to scoring several times.
In the second half, Lookman’s assist led to Ndidi’s goal, and Lookman himself scored the third goal on 67 minutes, after being set up by Osimhen.
Tunisia managed to pull one goal back with 16 minutes remaining, but Nigeria held on for the win. Elsewhere in Group C, Uganda and Tanzania played to a 1-1 draw, with Allan Okello missing a late penalty for Uganda.
Tanzania’s Simon Msuva scored the opening goal from the penalty spot, but Uche Ikpeazu equalized for Uganda in the dying minutes.
The final round of group matches is set for Tuesday, with Nigeria facing Uganda next. Nigeria’s victory ensures their progression to the knockout stage, while the outcome of the Uganda-Tanzania match will determine the final spot in the last 16. Regional officials confirmed the results, and further details are expected as the AFCON tournament progresses.
