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The Nigeria national football team completed a perfect group-stage campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, defeating the Uganda national football team 3–1 at the Fez Stadium to finish top of Group C with nine points from three matches.
The result confirms Nigeria’s dominance in the group and sends the Super Eagles into the knockout stage with momentum, while Uganda’s hopes of progressing were extinguished despite a spirited display.
Ejes Gist News reports that Nigeria combined clinical finishing with tactical control to overcome the Cranes, particularly after Uganda were reduced to ten men early in the second half.
Uganda vs Nigeria Full-Time Score
AFCON 2025 – Group C
Uganda 1–3 Nigeria
First Half: Onuachu Gives Nigeria the Lead
Nigeria started the match on the front foot, controlling possession and applying sustained pressure through the wings. Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze repeatedly stretched Uganda’s defence, while Victor Osimhen remained a constant threat with his movement.
The breakthrough arrived in the 28th minute when Paul Onuachu reacted quickest inside the box to convert after Uganda goalkeeper Denis Onyango initially denied Nigeria. The goal capped Nigeria’s early dominance and gave the Super Eagles a deserved lead.
Uganda responded with moments of attacking intent, particularly through Uche Ikpeazu and wide deliveries into the box, but lacked the final touch. Nigeria went into the break leading 1–0.
Half-Time: Nigeria in Control
At half-time, Nigeria held a narrow advantage after controlling large spells of the opening period. Uganda remained competitive on set pieces but struggled to break through a well-organised Nigerian back line marshalled by Calvin Bassey and Francis Uzoho.
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Second Half Turning Point: Red Card for Uganda
The decisive moment came in the 56th minute when Uganda goalkeeper Salim Jamal Magoola, who had replaced the injured Onyango at half-time, was sent off for handling the ball outside his area to deny Osimhen a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
The red card reduced Uganda to ten men and forced them to rely on their third-choice goalkeeper, dramatically shifting the balance of the match.
Onyedika Double Extends Nigeria’s Lead
Nigeria quickly capitalised on their numerical advantage.
- 62′ – GOAL (Nigeria 2–0):
Raphael Onyedika finished calmly after a precise assist from Chukwueze, slotting the ball through the legs of the stand-in goalkeeper. - 67′ – GOAL (Nigeria 3–0):
The same combination struck again as Chukwueze provided another assist, allowing Onyedika to complete a quick-fire double with a low finish.
At this stage, the Super Eagles were firmly in control and cruising toward victory.
Uganda Pull One Back
- 75′ – GOAL (Uganda 1–3):
Rogers Mato scored a consolation goal for Uganda, lifting the ball over Uzoho after a well-weighted pass from Allan Okello. Despite being down to ten men, Uganda earned reward for their persistence.
Late Changes and Game Management
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle introduced fresh legs late on, with Zaidu Sanusi and Tochukwu Nnadi replacing Bruno Onyemaechi and Paul Onuachu as Nigeria focused on seeing out the game.
The Super Eagles maintained possession and composure until the final whistle.
AFCON 2025 Group C Final Standings (Nigeria)
- Played: 3
- Won: 3
- Points: 9
- Goals scored: 7
- Goals conceded: 2
Nigeria finish top of Group C with a perfect record.
What the Result Means
- Nigeria AFCON: Super Eagles advance to the knockout stage with maximum points
- Uganda: Eliminated from the competition
- Africa Cup of Nations stats: Nigeria among the most efficient teams in the group phase
Fans searching Nigeria match today, Nigeria vs Uganda live, Nigeria vs Uganda AFCON, or when is Nigeria next match will now turn attention to the knockout draw.
When Is Nigeria’s Next Match?
Nigeria’s next fixture will come in the AFCON Round of 16, where the Super Eagles are expected to face a third-placed team or a group runner-up, depending on final tournament standings.
