AFCON 2025: Super Eagles Romp into Round of 16 Spot with Gritty Win Over Tunisia

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have officially booked their place in the knockout stages of the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Tunisia on Saturday night. Building on their opening 2–1 win against Tanzania, the three-time African champions now sit comfortably at the top of Group C with a perfect record of six points from two matches.

The encounter lived up to its billing as a heavyweight clash, but it was Nigeria who struck first. Star striker Victor Osimhen opened the scoring just before the halftime whistle, rising highest to head the ball home and settle the nerves of the Nigerian side.

The momentum stayed with the Super Eagles after the break, as goals from midfield veteran Wilfred Ndidi and forward Ademola Lookman appeared to put the game out of reach, giving Eric Chelle’s men a commanding 3–0 lead.

However, the Carthage Eagles, who were coming off a dominant 3–0 win over Uganda, staged a spirited late comeback. Montassar Talbi pulled one back for the North Africans to spark hopes of a turnaround, followed by a tense finish after Ali Al-Abdi converted a late penalty.

Despite the pressure in the closing minutes, the Nigerian defense held firm to preserve the lead and secure the vital three points.

With this result, Nigeria becomes one of the first teams to qualify for the Round of 16 with a game to spare. While Tunisia remains in second place with three points, the Super Eagles will look to maintain their winning streak in their final group fixture, having already established themselves as serious contenders for the title.