Sport|Africa Cup of NationsNigeria reach AFCON knockouts despite late Tunisia scareNigeria handed a nervy ending by Tunisia but hold on to become the second team to reach 2025 Africa Cup of Nations knockouts.

Africa Cup of Nations: Nigeria Advances to Knockout Stage

Nigeria secured a place in the knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations by defeating Tunisia 3-2 on Sat, Dec 27, 2025, in Fes. Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman scored for Nigeria, while Tunisia's Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi managed to score, leading to a tense finish.

Nigeria initially led 3-0, but Tunisia responded with two goals. During the seven minutes of added time, Tunisia missed two opportunities to equalize. Nigeria now leads Group C with six points, followed by Tunisia with three, and Tanzania and Uganda with one point each.

This match marked the seventh encounter between Nigeria and Tunisia in an AFCON setting. Historically, Nigeria has won three times, and Tunisia once. Two of their matches ended in penalty shootouts, with each team winning once.

Nigeria showcased a strong performance, particularly in the first 30 minutes. Osimhen excelled in aerial duels, contributing significantly to Nigeria's offense. The team demonstrated improved performance compared to their previous match against Tanzania.

Key moments included Osimhen's disallowed goal due to offside, followed by his successful goal after 44 minutes, assisted by Lookman. In the second half, Ndidi scored his first international goal, and Lookman secured Nigeria's third goal.

Tunisia responded with Talbi's goal and a penalty converted by Abdi after a VAR review indicated a handball by Bright Samuel.

Uganda vs. Tanzania: Draw in Group C Clash

Uganda and Tanzania played to a 1-1 draw earlier on Sat, Dec 27, 2025, at the Africa Cup of Nations. Allan Okello missed a late penalty for Uganda, who had to settle for a draw after Uche Ikpeazu's equalizer.

Tanzania initially took the lead with Simon Msuva's penalty. Ikpeazu later equalized with a header from Denis Omedi's cross.

Uganda missed the opportunity to win after Okello's penalty attempt went over the bar in the 90th minute. Uganda coach Paul Put expressed disappointment over the missed chance, stating, "That is very, very painful, but that is also football."

Both teams now have one point each in Group C, trailing behind Nigeria and Tunisia. Uganda and Tanzania will face Nigeria and Tunisia, respectively, in their next matches.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.