The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, completed a flawless group stage campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco. They secured their third consecutive victory in Group C by defeating Uganda 3-1 on Tuesday, December 31, 2025. This dominant performance ensured they finished at the summit of their pool with a perfect nine points.
Onyedika Shines in Nigeria's Commanding Victory
Despite resting several key players after already confirming their top spot, Nigeria delivered a commanding display against Uganda. The match saw midfielder Raphael Onyedika emerge as the hero, scoring two crucial goals. Adding to the East African side's woes, striker Paul Onuachu found the net for his first international goal in four years, marking a significant personal milestone.
Uganda's campaign ended in chaos and disappointment. Their only consolation came from a goal by Rogers Mato. The match descended into further disarray for coach Paul Put's side as they were forced to use three different goalkeepers. This unprecedented situation arose due to an injury and a red card shown to their first-choice keeper, Salim Magoola.
Tanzania's Dramatic Draw Seals Historic Knockout Berth
In the other pivotal Group C encounter played simultaneously on Tuesday, Tanzania scripted a historic chapter for their football. They fought back to hold Tunisia to a 1-1 draw, a result that proved enough to propel them into the tournament's round of 16.
Tunisia had taken the lead just before halftime through a 43rd-minute penalty converted by Ismael Gharbi. However, Tanzania's resilience paid off early in the second half. Feisal Salum unleashed a powerful shot just three minutes after the restart to equalize. This solitary point, Tanzania's second of the tournament, was sufficient. They advanced as one of the four best third-placed teams from the group stages.
Final Group C Standings and Looking Ahead
The results from Tuesday solidified the final Group C table. Nigeria finished first with 9 points, demonstrating their status as one of the tournament favorites. Tunisia qualified in second place, while Tanzania's dramatic draw secured their passage in third. Uganda, with no points from their three matches, were eliminated.
Nigeria will now look to carry their formidable group-stage momentum into the knockout rounds. For Tanzania, reaching the last 16 is a monumental achievement, and they will aim to continue their underdog story. The focus now shifts to the round of 16 matchups, where the intensity of the continent's premier football competition is set to increase dramatically.
