Nigeria delivered one of their most commanding performances of the tournament on Friday night, defeating Tunisia 3–2 in a thrilling Africa Cup of Nations group-stage encounter.
Goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman put the Super Eagles firmly in control before Tunisia mounted a late comeback that made the closing stages tense.
The result confirmed Nigeria as group winners, ensuring they will remain at the Fes stadium regardless of the outcome of their final group match against Uganda.
The win also ended Tunisia’s remarkable defensive run, having entered the match unbeaten in World Cup qualifying with nine wins, one draw, 22 goals scored, and none conceded.
Tactical Tweaks Pay Off for Nigeria
Nigeria head coach Eric Sekou Chelle made key tactical adjustments ahead of kickoff, opting for a more robust midfield setup to counter Tunisia’s strength in transition.
He paired Frank Onyeka with Wilfred Ndidi in a double pivot and replaced Zaidu Sanusi with Bruno Onyemaechi at left back.
Tunisia coach Hatem Trabelsi also showed caution, abandoning his usual 4-3-3 formation for a 3-5-2 shape designed to limit Nigeria’s attacking threat.
Despite this, Nigeria dominated large stretches of the match, pressing aggressively and winning second balls, particularly in the first half and early stages of the second.
The Super Eagles raced into a three-goal lead through Osimhen’s header before halftime, Ndidi’s close-range finish from a corner, and Lookman’s well-taken strike from Osimhen’s cutback.
Osimhen Ends AFCON Goal Drought
Victor Osimhen finally found the net at the tournament, heading home Ademola Lookman’s cross just before halftime.
It was only his second AFCON goal and his first after a run of missed chances and disallowed efforts earlier in the competition.
The Galatasaray striker could have scored more, having missed several opportunities, but his overall performance was impressive.
He contributed creatively, setting up Lookman twice, including the assist for Nigeria’s third goal.
The strike moved Osimhen within five goals of Rashidi Yekini’s all-time Nigeria scoring record.
He was later cautioned for his celebration, which drew a brief exchange with Tunisia’s coach, who downplayed the incident after the match.
Lookman Stars as Ndidi Thrives as Captain
Ademola Lookman delivered a standout performance, earning the Man of the Match award. He was heavily involved across the pitch, supplying the cross for Osimhen’s goal, delivering the corner for Ndidi’s header, and scoring himself.
A goal and two assists. What can’t Lookman do? The TotalEnergies Man of the Match. 🇳🇬🌟
Wilfred Ndidi, captaining the side, scored his first-ever international goal in his 71st appearance for Nigeria.
Operating effectively alongside Onyeka, he combined leadership with discipline and composure, anchoring the midfield throughout.
Late Lapses Nearly Cost Eagles
Despite their dominance, Nigeria once again struggled to close out the game comfortably. After going 3–0 up, they lost concentration and allowed Tunisia back into the match.
A poorly defended free kick led to Tunisia’s first goal, compounded by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali slipping on the wet surface. A later handball by Bright Osayi-Samuel resulted in a penalty that narrowed the margin to one goal.
Chelle admitted afterward that his side dropped intensity after the third goal and acknowledged the need to improve game management in the final stages.
Four European Clubs React to Nigeria’s Victory
At least four European clubs have reacted to Nigeria’s victory against Tunisia.
Reacting, Sevilla, who have two Nigerian players – Adams Akor and Chidera Ejuke – in their squad, wrote on X: “Akor and Ejuke both featured as Nigeria booked their place in the Round of 16 following a 3-2 win against Tunisia.”
Also reacting, Atalanta, who have Ademola in their team, also wrote: “The Super Eagles fly into the AFCON 2025 round of 16. Ademola Lookman starred with a goal and two assists against Tunisia.”
Similarly, Birmingham City, who have Bright Osayi-Samuel in their squad, wrote: “Proud Nigeria. Congratulations to @Bright_097, who this evening played the full game in @NGSuperEagles’ 3-2 victory over Tunisia at #AFCON.”
On its part, Besiktas, who have Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi in their squad, simply posted the midfielder’s goal celebration with the caption: “W . Super Eagles.”
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Afcon here we come!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!