Nigeria signed off their AFCON 2025 Group C campaign with a statement victory, completing a perfect run after brushing aside Uganda in their final group match, despite already securing a Round of 16 place before kickoff.
The Super Eagles controlled proceedings from the opening exchanges and took a deserved lead in the 28th minute, when Paul Onuachu capitalised on sustained pressure to fire Nigeria ahead and set the tone for another commanding display.
Nigeria remained composed after the break and doubled their advantage in the 62nd minute, with Raphael Onyedika finishing calmly after a swift attacking move. Just five minutes later, in the 67th, Onyedika struck again, pouncing on a loose ball inside the area to put the contest firmly beyond Uganda’s reach.
Uganda’s evening unravelled further when they were reduced to 10 men following a red card, leaving the Cranes overwhelmed as Nigeria continued to dictate the tempo with ease and confidence.
The Cranes managed a late consolation goal, but it did little to alter the balance of a match Nigeria had long controlled, showcasing squad depth, discipline and attacking sharpness.
The result confirmed Nigeria’s perfect record in Group C, maximum points and growing momentum heading into the knockout stage, while Uganda bowed out of the tournament after a difficult group campaign.
With three wins from three and authority in every performance, the Super Eagles march into the Round of 16 as one of AFCON 2025’s most convincing contenders.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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