By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 31 December 2025 - Nigeria capped off a flawless campaign in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group stage with a convincing 3–1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday at the Fez Stadium in Morocco to finish top of Group C with nine points.
The Super Eagles clinched their third straight win against the Cranes to seal the group winners’ spot, becoming the only team at this year’s tournament to win all three of their group matches.
Nigeria opened the scoring in the 28th minute when towering striker Paul Onuachu poked home from close range after a neat build-up involving Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, ending a long goal drought for the forward on the international stage.
The match’s momentum shifted early in the second half when Uganda was reduced to ten men — substitute goalkeeper Salim Magoola was sent off for handling the ball outside the box to deny a clear goalscoring chance.
Nigeria capitalised immediately, with Raphael Onyedika doubling the lead in the 62nd minute, finishing calmly after a well-weighted pass from Samuel Chukwueze.
Just five minutes later, Onyedika struck again to make it 3–0, securing his brace and extending Nigeria’s advantage.
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Uganda pulled one back in the 75th minute through Rogers Mato, who chipped the ball over the goalkeeper following a neat assist from Allan Okello, but it proved only a consolation.
With this result, Nigeria finished Group C on a perfect nine points, scoring eight goals and conceding just four in three matches.
The Super Eagles will now advance to the AFCON Round of 16, where they are expected to face one of the best third-placed teams from the other groups.
Meanwhile, Tunisia and Tanzania also progressed, the latter reaching the knockout stage for the first time in their history after holding Tunisia to a draw in the other Group C game.
AFCON 2025: Nigeria Make It Three Wins in Three to Top Group C
Super Eagles Secure a 3–1 Win Over Uganda
