In a pulsating encounter at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, Morocco, the Super Eagles of Nigeria soared into the knockout stages of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Tunisia. The match, a showcase of attacking verve and nerve-shredding tension, was defined by the creative genius of Ademola Lookman, who delivered a performance of the highest caliber to propel his nation forward.
A Tale of Two Halves: Nigeria’s Dominance Meets Tunisian Resilience
After weathering early pressure and squandering several promising chances, Nigeria broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time. The breakthrough came from the now-familiar partnership of Lookman and Victor Osimhen. Lookman, operating with menace from the left flank, delivered a pinpoint cross that Osimhen, demonstrating his world-class aerial ability, powered home with a commanding header. This goal, Osimhen’s 32nd in 46 international appearances, edged him closer to the legendary Rashidi Yekini’s all-time Nigerian record of 37.
The second half began with the Super Eagles in rampant form. Just five minutes after the restart, captain Wilfred Ndidi—typically the midfield destroyer—transformed into an unlikely goalscorer. Rising highest to meet another exquisite, inswinging delivery from Lookman’s corner, Ndidi nodded home to score his maiden international goal, a moment that underscored Nigeria’s multi-faceted threat.
The decisive third goal in the 67th minute was a masterpiece of teamwork and composure. Victor Osimhen, showcasing his unselfish side, uncharacteristically squared the ball across the face of goal instead of shooting, presenting Lookman with a simple tap-in. It was a fitting reward for the Atalanta forward, whose vision and delivery had orchestrated the entire performance.
The Tunisian Fightback and Tactical Context
Facing a three-goal deficit, Tunisia displayed characteristic North African grit. They halved the deficit in the 74th minute through Montassar Talbi’s powerful header from a set-piece, exposing a momentary lapse in the Nigerian defense. The tension reached a fever pitch when Tunisia was awarded a late penalty, coolly converted by Ali Abdi. This frantic finale highlighted a crucial lesson for Nigeria: while their attacking play was scintillating, managing games with a lead remains an area for refinement as they progress into the high-stakes knockout rounds.
This victory continues Nigeria’s historical upper hand over Tunisia in AFCON tournaments. Of their seven meetings, Nigeria has now won four, lost one, and drawn two, with those draws decided by penalty shootouts (one win each).
Group C Landscape and Looking Ahead
With this result, Nigeria sits comfortably atop Group C with a perfect six points from two matches, their place in the Round of 16 mathematically secure. Tunisia remains in second with three points, while Tanzania and Uganda, who played to a 1-1 draw, are on one point each. The Super Eagles’ final group match against Uganda on December 30th is now a chance to fine-tune tactics and secure top spot, which could prove crucial for an easier knockout path.
Broader Tournament Implications
Elsewhere in Group D, the tournament narrative continued to unfold. Benin Republic kept their knockout hopes alive with a narrow 1-0 win over Botswana, while heavyweights Senegal were held to a surprising 1-1 draw by a resilient DR Congo in what was described as a “highly explosive encounter.” These results underscore the increasing competitiveness and unpredictability of modern AFCON tournaments, where traditional powerhouses can no longer expect straightforward passages.
Conclusion: A Statement of Intent
More than just securing qualification, Nigeria’s victory was a statement of intent. The combination of Osimhen’s predatory instincts, Ndidi’s commanding presence, and Lookman’s creative brilliance presents a formidable attacking trident. However, the late concessions will give coach José Peseiro food for thought. The Super Eagles have demonstrated they possess the firepower to challenge for the title, but mastering the art of game management will be the key to navigating the perilous knockout stages that lie ahead. For now, the nation celebrates a team that is not just winning, but doing so with flair and conviction.
