Nigeria vs Tunisia AFCON 2025: Osimhen, Lookman, Ndidi Fire Super Eagles to Group C Victory

Nigeria sealed a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Tunisia in their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Group C encounter, securing maximum points in a dramatic contest played in Fez, Morocco. The Super Eagles delivered decisive moments in attack through Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman, then withstood late pressure to close out a crucial win.

 

The result strengthened Nigeria’s position at the top end of Group C and significantly boosted their chances of qualification for the knockout stages.

 

Ejes Gist News reports that the match swung on Nigeria’s clinical finishing in key phases, despite a spirited late response from Tunisia.

 

Also Read: Egypt vs South Africa: Mohamed Salah Secures Decisive Win for Pharaohs

High-Intensity Group C Clash in Fez

Both teams entered the fixture on positive footing from their opening games, raising the stakes for a meeting that promised qualification implications. Nigeria set up with a balanced structure, prioritising midfield control and wide progression, while Tunisia focused on compact lines and quick transitions.

The opening exchanges were competitive, with Nigeria gradually asserting control through sustained possession and pressing triggers that limited Tunisia’s build-up options.

Osimhen Breaks the Deadlock Before the Interval

Nigeria’s pressure paid off late in the first half. In the 44th minute, Victor Osimhen rose decisively inside the penalty area to finish a well-worked attacking move, giving the Super Eagles a deserved lead going into halftime.

The goal capped a strong first-half display from Nigeria, who created multiple openings and forced Tunisia to defend deep for extended periods.

Ndidi Extends Lead After the Restart

Nigeria doubled their advantage shortly after the break. In the 50th minute, Wilfred Ndidi capitalised on a set-piece situation, directing a header home from close range to put Nigeria firmly in control at 2–0.

The early second-half goal shifted momentum decisively and forced Tunisia to commit more players forward in search of a response.

Lookman Adds a Third as Nigeria Dominate

Nigeria continued to threaten on transitions and wing play. In the 67th minute, Ademola Lookman finished clinically to make it 3–0, converting sustained attacking pressure into a commanding scoreline.

At that point, Nigeria appeared comfortable, combining disciplined defensive positioning with controlled possession to manage the tempo.

Tunisia Rally Late Through Talbi and Abdi

Tunisia responded with renewed urgency and were rewarded in the closing stages. Mohamed Talbi pulled one back in the 74th minute, reigniting the contest and increasing pressure on Nigeria’s back line.

The Carthage Eagles continued to push forward and earned a penalty late on. Ali Abdi converted from the spot in the 87th minute, narrowing the deficit to 3–2 and setting up a tense finish.

Nigeria, however, maintained composure in the final minutes, limiting Tunisia’s chances and protecting their lead until full time.

Tactical Discipline Seals the Win

Despite the late surge from Tunisia, Nigeria’s overall performance reflected tactical discipline and attacking efficiency. Ndidi’s midfield control, Osimhen’s presence in the box, and Lookman’s direct running proved decisive over the course of the match.

Defensively, Nigeria absorbed pressure late on, clearing danger and managing stoppages to see out the result.

Group C Implications

The victory places Nigeria in a strong position in Group C, with qualification to the knockout stages now firmly within reach. Tunisia, despite their late rally, face increased pressure in their remaining group fixtures.

Match Summary

• Competition: Africa Cup of Nations 2025
• Group: C
• Venue: Fez, Morocco
• Final Score: Nigeria 3–2 Tunisia

Goalscorers:

• Nigeria: Victor Osimhen (44’), Wilfred Ndidi (50’), Ademola Lookman (67’)
• Tunisia: Mohamed Talbi (74’), Ali Abdi (87’, pen)

Nigeria will now turn attention to their next Group C fixture with momentum on their side, while Tunisia regroup after a narrow defeat that underscored both their resilience and defensive vulnerabilities.