Group C Showdown: Nigeria Edge Tunisia in a Five-Goal Thriller
Nigeria produced a dramatic performance to overcome a spirited Tunisia side, sealing a 3-2 win in their AFCON 2025 Group C encounter. After opening with a 2-1 victory over Tanzania, the Super Eagles faced a test from the North Africans who pushed hard for a result in a match that swung on quick-fire goals and late resistance.
From the outset, Nigeria showed intent, trading chances with a Tunisia side that was keen to overturn an early deficit in the group. The breakthrough came when a neat build-up released Victor Osimhen into space, and the Napoli striker clinically converted to give the Super Eagles the lead. It was a moment that showcased Osimhen’s poaching instinct and the team’s willingness to attack with purpose.
Wilfred Ndidi then added a second for Nigeria, nodding home from a corner after a period of sustained pressure. The midfield enforcer’s goal extended the lead and underscored the balance between defense and attack that Nigeria had crafted through the opening stages of the match. The twist in the tale arrived late in the first half when Tunisia found a response, lifting the tempo as they sought to regain momentum before the break.
As the second half unfolded, Ademola Lookman took a central role in shaping Nigeria’s attacking game. The forward’s pace and clever movement caused persistent headaches for the Tunisian defense, and his contributions culminated in a third goal that looked to have put the tie beyond doubt. Lookman’s accuracy in the final third reflected the importance of cutting-edge finishing in a competition where margins are razor-thin.
That said, the encounter did not end without drama. Tunisia refused to surrender, ramping up their pressing and earning a late goal that sparked a frantic final period. The stage was set for a tense finale, with both teams chasing a pivotal win that would influence the pursuit of a knockout-stage berth.
In the closing minutes, Nigeria’s defense faced a stern test as Tunisia intensified their attack, seeking another equalizer. The Super Eagles’ backline showed resilience, repelling a flurry of dangerous crosses and set-pieces, and they held on to secure the win. The victory not only reinforced Nigeria’s status as a contender in Group C but also demonstrated the squad’s capacity to absorb pressure and close out matches under late-game pressure.
Coach reactions highlighted the blend of calculated risk and disciplined defending that underpinned the win. With a second consecutive win in the group, Nigeria sits in a favorable position to advance, while Tunisia-looked to bounce back in their remaining fixtures as the AFCON 2025 campaign unfolds.
Looking ahead, the tactical balance—an assertive attack backed by a resolute defense—will be crucial for Nigeria as the group progresses. Osimhen’s sharpness in front of goal, Ndidi’s control in midfield, and Lookman’s creativity in the final third provided a blueprint for success, but consistency will be the key as the competition intensifies.
For fans, the match offered drama in abundance and a reminder of why AFCON remains one of the continent’s most captivating football tournaments. Nigeria will seek to capitalize on this momentum in their next assignment, aiming to seal a favorable position in Group C and push toward the knockout rounds with renewed confidence.
