Nigeria join record title holders, Egypt to reach the Round of 16 of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), even as Matchday 2 of the group stage are yet to be concluded. In front of the roaring fans at the Complexe sportif de Fès in northeastern Morocco, the Super Eagles triumphed 3-2.
The Nigerians, who are seeking their fourth African crown, dominated proceedings early against their the north African opposition, Tunisia with the first goal from prolific striker Victor Osimhen in the 44th minute.
That was followed by another by captain Wilfred Ndidi five minutes into the restart. Officially leading the national team for the second time, Ndidi headed in from a cross by Ademola Lookman, the same supplier of Osimhen’s earlier goal.
Osimhen turned the provider for Lookman to hit in Nigeria’s third goal of the night in the 67th minute, while Tunisia got their consolation goal 74 minutes into the game through defender Montassar Talbi.
Tunisia put Nigeria on the edge as they earned a penalty, which was nicely converted by Ali Abdi in the 87th minute.
The Eagles of Carthage then piled pressure on the Nigerian team in the chase of the equaliser that never came.
After beating Tanzania 2-1 on Tuesday, victory over the 2004 champions not only earned Nigeria six maximum points, but also made it impossible for the other sides in Group C to overtake the Super Eagles in the log.
Nigeria still have to face Uganda on Tuesday to conclude the first round, and then await the best third placed side from Groups A, B or F in the Round of 16 on Sunday, 5 January 2026.
