The Super Eagles continued their flawless run in the 2025 Africai Cup of Nations by defeating 10-man Uganda 3-1 in their final Group C encounter at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Tuesday.
Nigeria wasted no time showing their intent, with Victor Osimhen’s early strike parried by Ugandan goalkeeper Denis Onyango in the opening minute, though the effort was ruled offside.
Despite Nigeria’s early dominance, Uganda gradually found their rhythm and threatened through Uche Ikpeazu on two occasions, both of which were comfortably dealt with by Francis Uzoho.
The deadlock was broken in the 28th minute when Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s precise cutback found Paul Onuachu, who calmly converted to give the Super Eagles the lead.
Moments earlier, Osimhen had set up Onuachu with a teasing pass, but the forward’s attempt was blocked by Onyango.
In the 38th minute, Simon Moses’ marauding run down the left flank ended with a clever pass to Onuachu, but the striker’s effort to lay off to Osimhen was intercepted by a Ugandan defender.
The second half began at a high tempo, with Ikpeazu delivering a dangerous cross that was cleared by Calvin Bassey Awaziem.
The Super Eagles came close to doubling their advantage from a corner, but Awaziem failed to make clean contact. Bruno Onyeamechi’s long-range attempt shortly after also failed to trouble Uganda’s goal.
Uganda’s frustrations intensified in the 56th minute when their substitute goalkeeper was shown a red card for handling Osimhen’s goal-bound strike outside the box.
Nigeria capitalized on the numerical advantage in the 62nd minute when Chukwueze’s precise through ball set Raphael Onyedika up for a composed finish.
The Super Eagles effectively sealed the victory five minutes later, with Chukwueze’s dazzling run slicing through the defense before assisting Onyedika for his second goal of the match.
Uganda managed a consolation goal in the 75th minute as Rogers Mato chipped Uzoho with finesse, but the visitors could not mount a comeback.
With this win, Nigeria completed the group stage with a perfect record, securing maximum points in Group C as they march confidently into the knockout rounds.
