AFCON 2025: Nigeria sweep aside 10-Man Uganda to complete perfect Group Stage

Nigeria capped a dominant group-stage showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a comfortable 3–1 win over Uganda, sealing top spot in Group C and ending the Cranes’ return to the finals after their first appearance since 2019.

Already assured of qualification before kick-off, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle rang the changes, making eight alterations to the side that defeated Tunisia. Despite the rotation, Nigeria’s depth and control were evident from the opening minutes.

Early pressure nearly paid off inside the first 10 minutes when Samuel Chukwueze miscued after excellent wing play from Moses Simon. Nigeria continued to dominate possession, with Victor Osimhen proving a constant menace.

Osimhen created the first clear opening midway through the half, racing down the right and squaring for Paul Onuachu, but veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango produced a fine save. The Ugandan keeper, however, was powerless moments later as Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cutback fell kindly for Onuachu, who converted from close range to give Nigeria a deserved lead.

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Uganda struggled to respond and failed to register a shot on target before halftime, continuing a trend that left them ill-equipped for a comeback.

Nigeria maintained their grip after the restart, with Chidozie Awaziem and Bruno Onyemaechi both going close. Uganda’s task became even harder when Onyango was forced off injured at halftime, and his replacement Salim Magoola was sent off shortly after for handling the ball outside the area while denying Osimhen a goalscoring chance.

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Down to ten men, the Cranes quickly unravelled. Raphael Onyedika doubled Nigeria’s lead after being played through by Chukwueze, calmly slotting the ball between the legs of substitute goalkeeper Nafian Alionzi.

The same combination struck again soon after, with Chukwueze beating his marker before teeing up Onyedika, who finished confidently from inside the box to make it 3–0.

Uganda managed a late consolation when Rogers Mato produced a delightful chipped finish over Francis Uzoho, but it did little to change the outcome on a difficult night for Paul Put’s side.

Group C Summary

Nigeria finish the group stage with a perfect nine points from three matches, advancing to the Round of 16 full of confidence. Tunisia secured second place, while Tanzania progressed as one of the best third-placed teams.

Uganda, meanwhile, ended bottom of the group with just one win in nine AFCON matches.

Nigeria will face the third-placed team from Group F in the knockout phase on January 5, with Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, or Mozambique potential opponents.