AFCON 2025: Tunisia dismantle Uganda to seize Group C lead

Tunisia made a commanding statement at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday night, cruising to a 3-1 victory over Uganda in their Group C opener at the Stade Olympique de Rabat.

The Carthage Eagles controlled the game from kickoff to final whistle, combining tactical discipline with clinical finishing to secure maximum points and early control of the group.

Skhiri milestone sets the tone

Tunisia’s dominance translated into an early breakthrough when Ellyes Skhiri powered home a header from a precisely delivered corner by Hannibal Mejbri.

The goal carried historical significance, marking Tunisia’s 100th goal in AFCON history and underlining their pedigree at the tournament.

Uganda struggled to cope with Tunisia’s pressure, spending long spells pinned in their own half as the North Africans dictated play.

Achouri delivers decisive impact

Five minutes before the interval, Tunisia doubled their advantage through Elias Achouri.

Ali Abdi’s delivery found the winger in space, and Achouri responded with a first-time volley into the top corner to put the match firmly under Tunisia’s control.

The pattern remained unchanged after the break, with Tunisia maintaining pressure and limiting Uganda’s attacking threat.

Achouri struck again shortly after the hour mark, reacting quickest to score a second ball after Uganda goalkeeper Jamal Salim failed to hold Abdi’s shot, tapping into an unguarded net to effectively end the contest.

Group C picture sharpens

Uganda pulled a late goal back through Denis Omedi in stoppage time, but it only served as a consolation.

The result lifts Tunisia to the top of Group C on goal difference, ahead of Nigeria, and sets up a high-stakes clash between the two sides on Saturday that could define the group’s direction.

Uganda, meanwhile, face a must-respond scenario when they meet Tanzania, with little margin for further error.