AFCON: Super Eagles seal knockout spot after thrilling victory over Tunisia

Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured qualification for the knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations after a 3–2 victory over Tunisia in their Group C clash at the Fez Stadium on Saturday.

Goals from Victor Osimhen, skipper Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman ensured Nigeria claimed all three points in a dramatic five-goal encounter, extending their dominance over the Carthage Eagles.

Head coach Eric Chelle made changes to his starting lineup, dropping Zaidu Sanusi and Samuel Chukwueze to the bench, while Bruno Onyemaechi and Frank Onyeka were introduced. Osimhen partnered Akor Adams in attack.

Nigeria controlled proceedings in the opening half, fashioning several opportunities. Osimhen headed wide twice, while another effort was ruled out for offside.

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The breakthrough eventually came when the Galatasaray striker nodded home a precise early cross from Lookman, giving Nigeria a 1–0 advantage at halftime.

Five minutes after the interval, the Super Eagles doubled their lead as Ndidi glanced in Lookman’s corner kick to score his first-ever international goal, making it 2–0.

Lookman then completed a swift counterattack in the 67th minute to stretch Nigeria’s lead to three goals.

Tunisia responded late in the contest as Nigeria began to tire. Montassar Talbi reduced the deficit with a header in the 74th minute, and Ali Abdi converted a handball penalty in the 87th minute to set up a tense finish.

Despite the pressure, Nigeria held on to secure the win and maintain their strong group-stage record against Tunisia, whom they have now defeated twice, including a 4–2 victory at AFCON 2000.

The result also marked the first time Tunisia have conceded three goals in an AFCON match since Ivory Coast achieved the feat in 2013.

With six points from two matches and a perfect start to the tournament, Nigeria will face Uganda in their final Group C fixture on Tuesday, December 30.