Nigeria Cruise Past Uganda to Seal Perfect AFCON Group Stage
Nigeria closed out the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in emphatic fashion, defeating Uganda 3-1 in Abidjan to secure maximum points from Group C. The Super Eagles, already assured of top spot, showcased their depth and attacking firepower, while Uganda’s return to the finals ended in disappointment as they bowed out at the first hurdle.
Super Eagles Rotate but Remain Ruthless
Head coach Éric Chelle made eight changes from the side that beat Tunisia, yet Nigeria remained dominant from the opening whistle. Moses Simon dazzled down the left early on, setting up Samuel Chukwueze, whose miss-kick spared Uganda an immediate setback. Victor Osimhen’s relentless energy soon carved open the Cranes’ defense, and after Denis Onyango denied Paul Onuachu from close range, the striker made amends moments later by converting Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cutback for his fourth international goal.
Uganda Struggle Under Pressure
Uganda failed to register a shot on target in the first half, continuing a run of low-scoring contests that left their hopes of a comeback slim. Nigeria pressed for more after the interval, with Chidozie Awaziem and Bruno Onyemaechi both threatening. Disaster struck for the Cranes when substitute goalkeeper Salim Magoola was sent off for handling outside the box, forcing Paul Put’s side to turn to a third keeper, Nafian Alionzi.
Onyedika Delivers the Knockout Blow
Nigeria capitalized on their advantage with Raphael Onyedika twice finding the net. The midfielder first slotted through Alionzi’s legs after a clever Chukwueze assist, then doubled his tally with a composed finish inside the area. Uganda’s misery was briefly eased when Rogers Mato produced a sublime chip over Francis Uzoho for a late consolation, but it did little to change the outcome.
Implications
Nigeria’s 100 percent record leaves them brimming with confidence heading into the knockout rounds, while Uganda’s campaign ends with three defeats and a reminder of the gulf at this level. For the Super Eagles, the combination of squad depth and clinical finishing suggests they are primed for a deep run in the tournament.