AFCON 2025: Super Eagles seal perfect group stage with 3-1 win over Uganda

Nigeria booked a flawless group-stage finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a convincing 3-1 victory over Uganda, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament’s most efficient performers.

Already qualified before kick-off, the Super Eagles combined squad rotation with ruthless execution to close Group C with maximum points and clear momentum heading into the knockout rounds.

Head coach Eric Chelle rang the changes but kept his team aggressive and structured.

Nigeria lined up in an attacking 4-4-2, pairing Victor Osimhen with Paul Onuachu, while debutant Ryan Alebiosu earned his first start at right-back.

Despite the changes, Nigeria’s intent was unmistakable: dominate possession, apply pressure, and finish clinically.

Uganda start brightly

Uganda, needing a win to stay alive, showed early ambition. They pressed high, moved the ball confidently, and created problems through Mutyaba’s midfield control and Mato’s wide deliveries. Nigeria initially absorbed the pressure before asserting control.

Onuachu breaks the deadlock

The breakthrough came in the 28th minute. After missing an earlier chance, Onuachu capitalised on a well-worked move, finishing from close range after a composed assist from Dele-Bashiru. The goal shifted momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favour.

Uganda’s challenge collapsed early in the second half when goalkeeper Jamal Salim was sent off for handling outside the box while trying to stop Osimhen through on goal.

The dismissal left Uganda a man down and stripped them of any realistic control.

Onyedika takes over as Uganda pull one back

Nigeria wasted no time. Raphael Onyedika doubled the lead in the 62nd minute, calmly converting after being released by Samuel Chukwueze.

Five minutes later, he completed his brace, finishing another Chukwueze assist to make it 3-0 and effectively kill the contest.

Uganda salvaged some pride when Mato pulled one back with a delicate finish following an Okello pass, but the goal had no bearing on the outcome. Nigeria managed the closing stages with composure and control.

The win sealed top spot in Group C with nine points, marking only the second time Nigeria have completed an AFCON group stage with a 100 percent record. Tunisia finished second after drawing with Tanzania.