Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a statement performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, edging Tunisia 3–2 in a pulsating Group C encounter to seal early qualification for the knockout stage—and announce themselves as genuine contenders.
At the heart of the win was Ademola Lookman, whose creativity, composure and leadership powered an Eagles side that blended attacking verve with tournament-grade resilience. The result keeps Nigeria perfect after two games and places them firmly atop Group C with six points.
How the Game Was Won
After a flurry of early chances went begging, Nigeria finally broke through on the stroke of half-time. Victor Osimhen rose highest to head home Lookman’s pinpoint delivery—his 32nd goal in 46 caps, bringing him within touching distance of Rashidi Yekini’s all-time national record.
Five minutes after the restart, the Eagles doubled their advantage. Captain Wilfred Ndidi—dominant all evening in midfield—powered in another Lookman set-piece to register his maiden international goal and underline Nigeria’s control.
Lookman then crowned his display in the 67th minute, finishing calmly after an unselfish assist from Osimhen to make it 3–0. Tunisia rallied late—Montassar Talbi headed in before Ali Abdi converted a penalty—but Nigeria managed the closing minutes with maturity to secure the win.
Tactical Takeaways
Nigeria’s blueprint was clear: aggressive wing play, vertical transitions, and set-piece precision. Lookman’s delivery consistently stretched Tunisia’s defensive block, while Osimhen’s movement created space for runners from midfield. Ndidi’s authority shielded the back line and kept Nigeria on the front foot.
There were lessons too. Conceding twice late—one from a set piece, one from the spot—prompted midfielder Frank Onyeka to call for greater concentration. In knockout football, such margins can decide outcomes.
Group Picture and What’s Next
With Nigeria qualified, attention turns to rotation and rhythm. Tunisia sit second on three points, while Uganda and Tanzania share a point apiece after a 1–1 draw. Nigeria close the group against Uganda in Fes, with Tunisia facing Tanzania in Rabat.
Historically, this fixture carries weight—this was the seventh AFCON meeting between Nigeria and Tunisia. The Eagles’ superior record showed again, but the late wobble serves as a timely reminder of tournament discipline.
A New Symbol for Individual Excellence
AFCON 2025 also debuted a redesigned Man-of-the-Match trophy—an emblem of Africa’s unity and shared football identity. The trophy’s 24 radiant beams represent the participating nations, converging to reflect collective strength, while the Damask rose at its core honours host nation Morocco.
Appropriately, Lookman was the first Nigerian to lift the new award at this tournament. He called it “a symbol of Africa’s story,” adding that it recognises effort beyond the individual—an ethos mirrored by Nigeria’s team-first display.
BRANDECONOMY Insight
Tournament football is as much about momentum as it is about moments. Nigeria have both. Lookman’s form gives the Eagles a creative edge; Osimhen’s scoring threat remains relentless; Ndidi’s control offers balance. Tighten the defensive details, and Nigeria’s ceiling rises sharply.
For a team chasing continental supremacy, this was not just a win—it was a marker.
