Onyedika Double Powers Super Eagles to Perfect AFCON Group Finish with 3–1 Win Over Uganda
Nigeria’s Super Eagles wrapped up the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in emphatic fashion on Tuesday, recording a 3–1 victory over Uganda despite fielding a largely rotated squad.
Midfielder Raphael Onyedika emerged as the standout performer, scoring twice in the second half as the Eagles capitalised on Uganda being reduced to 10 men in the contest played in Fes.
The result ensured Nigeria finished the group with a flawless record, collecting the maximum nine points after earlier wins against Tanzania and Tunisia.
The Super Eagles took control of the encounter midway through the first half, breaking the deadlock in the 28th minute following a swift attacking move.
Bruno Onyemaechi initiated the play with a precise pass that released Fisayo Dele-Bashiru down the flank. Dele-Bashiru’s low delivery into the box was calmly converted by Paul Onuachu, who found the net despite close attention from several Ugandan defenders.
Uganda’s task became significantly more difficult shortly after the restart when goalkeeper Salim Magoola was sent off in the 56th minute for handling the ball outside his penalty area. Magoola had only come on at halftime, replacing veteran captain Denis Onyango. The dismissal forced the Cranes to introduce a third goalkeeper, Legason Alionz, before the hour mark.
Nigeria wasted little time taking advantage of their numerical superiority. Onyedika doubled the lead in the 62nd minute, steering a well-placed effort into the bottom corner after being set up by Samuel Chukwueze. Five minutes later, the Club Brugge midfielder struck again, finishing another move created by Chukwueze to effectively put the game beyond reach.
Although Uganda managed a late response, the Super Eagles remained in firm control, seeing out the match comfortably to underline their strong form heading into the knockout phase of the tournament.
The comprehensive win not only highlighted Nigeria’s squad depth but also reinforced their status as one of the teams to watch as the competition progresses.
