The Super Eagles gave AFCON fans a night to remember in Fez as three goals, drama, and nerves combined in Nigeria’s 3‑2 win over Tunisia that booked their place in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. What started as dominance nearly turned into a scare, but in the end, Nigeria held on and the result feels like a statement.
For Victor Osimhen, this match was about more than three points. After a frustrating spell without goals in the tournament, the Galatasaray striker finally found the back of the net in the 44th minute, rising to meet Ademola Lookman’s perfectly‑weighted cross and burying a thunderous header. This goal wasn’t just a game‑changer, it was a confidence lifter. In fact, in his 10th AFCON appearance, Osimhen’s strike was only his second ever in the competition, proving that quality eventually finds its way.
Lookman was the heartbeat of this performance. First, he teed up Wilfred Ndidi’s first‑ever international goal with a sharp corner, and then he grabbed the third himself, coolly finishing after Osimhen’s setup. Whether it was his darting runs or clever link‑ups, Lookman was everywhere, forcing defenders to think twice and giving Nigerian fans something to cheer about all night. Tunisia Didn’t Go Quietly
Just when it looked like Nigeria had control, Tunisia hit back with two late strikes! Reminding everyone that football can be cruelly unpredictable. A well‑worked header from Montassar Talbi and a penalty from Ali Abdi made it 3‑2 and set up a nervy final stretch. The Carthage Eagles threatened to snatch a point, but Nigeria’s defence stood firm, and the Super Eagles held on for all three points.
Lessons From the 90 Minutes
• Pressure tests character: Nigeria’s late wobble reminded us that no lead is safe — but resilience wins games.
• Balance of youth and experience: Osimhen’s breakthrough goal, Lookman’s dynamism, and Ndidi’s debut strike balanced flair with grit.
• VAR drama adds spice: The penalty that brought Tunisia back into the game was one of those moments that’ll spark debate on forums long after the final whistle. 
What This Means for Nigeria.
With two wins in two and maximum points, the Super Eagles top Group C and seal their place in the knockouts. Whether they will carry this attacking spark into the next round — or tighten up defensively — is now the big talking point. Coach Eric Chelle will be pleased with the result, but there’s no doubt this performance raised eyebrows and expectations alike. Ghana, South Africa and other contenders will be watching carefully.
Online, fans went wild as every goal changed the feel of the game. Some praised the fluid attacking play, others ribbed the defensive lapses. One Reddit fan summed it up nicely: “That was one hell of a game.”
Where to Next?
Nigeria’s AFCON run is still young, but this kind of match action, tension, and individual brilliance feels like the sort of performance that could define their tournament. With players clicking into form at the right time, the Super Eagles might just be getting started.
