The Super Eagles of Nigeria closed their Group C campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with authority, discipline, and quiet menace, defeating Uganda 3–1 to finish the group stage with a flawless nine points from three matches. Already through to the knockout round before kickoff, Nigeria still played like a team with something to prove and a message to send.
Under the lights in Fes, the Super Eagles delivered a performance that underlined their growing confidence and tactical balance. Eric Chelle rotated his squad, handed the captain’s armband to Victor Osimhen, and trusted his depth. The response was emphatic.
Read: Yinka Ilori: The Creative Mind Behind AFCON’s Man of the Match Trophy
Nigeria Strike First and Control the Narrative
Nigeria began the match on the front foot, pressing high and pinning Uganda deep with controlled possession and quick ball circulation. That pressure paid off in the 28th minute when Paul Onuachu rose above his marker to power home a commanding header, converting Nigeria’s dominance into a deserved lead.
The goal settled the Super Eagles, who continued to dictate the tempo while denying Uganda space between the lines. Uganda tried to stay compact and look for moments on the break, but Nigeria’s midfield structure limited their options and kept the game firmly under control heading into halftime.
Onyedika Takes Over as Uganda Falter
The match tilted decisively after the break. Uganda’s hopes suffered a major blow in the 56th minute when Salim Magoola received a red card for a reckless challenge, leaving his side with ten men. Nigeria wasted no time in exploiting the numerical advantage.
Raphael Onyedika stepped into the spotlight. In the 62nd minute, the Club Brugge midfielder finished a smooth passing move with composure to double Nigeria’s lead. Five minutes later, he struck again, driving home a powerful effort that removed any remaining doubt and effectively ended the contest.
Uganda pulled one back through Rogers Mato in the 75th minute, but the goal came too late to change the narrative. Nigeria stayed compact, managed the closing stages professionally, and saw out the game with confidence and maturity.
Read: AFCON 2025: Nigeria’s Super Eagles Start with a Win
Perfect Group, Clear Warning to Rivals
The victory confirmed Nigeria as Group C winners with a perfect record, eight goals scored, and only four conceded. Wins over Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda have positioned the Super Eagles as one of the tournament’s most convincing sides heading into the knockout phase.
With momentum building and depth proving reliable, Nigeria now turn their attention to the Round of 16, where they are expected to face a third-placed team from Group A, B, or F. More importantly, they move forward with belief, balance, and a squad that looks increasingly comfortable with expectations.
This was not just a group-stage win. It was a statement of readiness.
Stay Updated With RefinedNG
At RefinedNG, we don’t just report results. We track momentum, spotlight excellence, and tell African stories the right way. If you’re following the Super Eagles’ journey at AFCON 2025 and beyond, stay with us. We’re your number one stop for all things positive, from the pitch to the bigger picture.