Nigeria withstood a dramatic late rally from Tunisia to win 3-2 and secure qualification to the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, finishing at the top of Group C with one match to spare.
The Super Eagles appeared to be cruising after building a commanding 3-0 lead, with Victor Osimhen opening the scoring just before halftime.
Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman added second-half goals to put Nigeria firmly in control with 17 minutes remaining.
Tunisia, however, mounted a stunning comeback attempt. Montassar Talbi headed in from a Hannibal Mejbri free-kick in the 73rd minute to spark hope. A late VAR-awarded penalty for a handball by Bright Osayi-Samuel was converted by Ali Abdi in the 87th minute, setting up a tense finish.
The Carthage Eagles nearly completed the turnaround in stoppage time, but captain Ferjani Sassi’s header sailed wide and Ismael Gharbi volleyed just past the post.
Despite the nervy conclusion, the victory guarantees Nigeria six points and first place in Group C. The three-time champions will face a third-placed finisher from Group A, B, or F in the round of 16.
