Super Eagles Finish Group Stage in Style with Dominant 3–1 Win Over Uganda in AFCON 2025

The Super Eagles of Nigeria wrapped up their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group-stage campaign in impressive fashion after securing a 3–1 victory over Uganda at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco. The result ensured Nigeria finished top of Group C with a perfect record, having already defeated Tanzania and Tunisia in their previous matches. With qualification already assured before kick-off, the Super Eagles stepped onto the pitch determined to maintain momentum and close out the group stage with maximum points.

Nigeria began brightly, dominating possession and pushing Uganda deep into their defensive half. The Super Eagles’ intent was clear from the opening minutes as they circulated the ball with precision, forcing Uganda to defend in numbers. The breakthrough finally arrived in the **29th minute** when **Paul Onuachu** reacted sharply at the near post to convert a low cross, giving Nigeria a deserved 1–0 lead. The goal reflected Nigeria’s early control and the constant threat posed by their attacking line.

Uganda, still fighting for a last chance to remain in the competition, attempted to respond but struggled to create clear chances. Their situation worsened shortly after the break. In the **57th minute**, Ugandan goalkeeper **Jamal Salim Magoola** was shown a **red card for handling the ball outside the penalty box**, denying Onuachu a goalscoring opportunity. The dismissal changed the rhythm of the match dramatically, leaving Uganda outnumbered and under heavy pressure.

Nigeria capitalised almost immediately on their numerical advantage. Midfielder **Raphael Onyedika** took centre stage, doubling Nigeria’s lead in the **63rd minute** with a composed finish from the edge of the box following a patient build-up involving several crisp passes. His confidence surged, and just **five minutes later**, he scored again — this time timing his run perfectly to meet a pass inside the area before firing home. The quickfire double placed Nigeria firmly in control and highlighted Onyedika’s growing influence within the squad.

Despite being reduced to ten men, Uganda refused to surrender. Their resilience paid off in the **76th minute** when **Rogers Mato** capitalised on a defensive lapse to pull one goal back with a sharp finish. The Cranes pushed for a second goal to spark a late comeback, but Nigeria’s defence remained composed, ensuring that the final stages of the match were managed professionally. The game ended 3-1, securing Nigeria’s third straight victory in the tournament.

With this win, Nigeria maintained their 100 percent record in the group and **advanced to the Round of 16 as Group C winners**. Head coach **Eric Chelle** was expected to rotate his squad, but the strong performance showed the depth and balance available within the team. Paul Onuachu’s early goal set the tone, while **Raphael Onyedika’s brace** stood out as one of the performances of the tournament so far for Nigeria.