Nigeria's Super Eagles soared into the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday, securing a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Tunisia in Fes. The win, powered by a goal from star striker Victor Osimhen, guaranteed the three-time champions a place in the last 16.
Super Eagles Soar, Then Survive Scare
In a dramatic Group C encounter, Victor Osimhen broke the deadlock just before half-time, netting his second-ever AFCON goal and his first since the 2024 tournament. Nigeria, looking much improved from their opening match, built a commanding lead after the break with Wilfred Ndidi scoring his first international goal and Ademola Lookman adding a third.
However, the North Africans mounted a fierce late rally. Goals from Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi in the closing stages set up a tense finale, with Tunisia coming close to an equaliser in added time. The Super Eagles held on to claim all three points, ensuring they became the second team after Egypt to qualify for the next round.
Senegal Held as Teenage Star Shines
In Tangiers, Sadio Mane was the hero for Senegal, scoring the equaliser in a 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Al Nassr forward struck just eight minutes after Cedric Bakambu had given DR Congo the lead in the 61st minute.
The goal was created by a moment of brilliance from 17-year-old substitute Ibrahim Mbaye. The Paris Saint-Germain winger, who recently committed his international future to Senegal, made a penetrating run down the right before his shot was parried into the path of Mane, who scored his 10th AFCON goal.
The result leaves Senegal top of Group D on goal difference, with both them and DR Congo well-placed to advance. Benin kept their hopes alive with a historic 1-0 win over Botswana, their first-ever AFCON victory.
Group Standings and Implications
The results have set up intriguing final group matches. In Group C, Nigeria now have six points, Tunisia are on three, while Tanzania and Uganda have one point each after drawing 1-1 in Rabat. Uganda's Allan Okello missed a late penalty in that match.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw expressed frustration at not killing the game earlier but praised his team's reaction to going behind. DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre was satisfied with his side's disciplined performance against the African champions.
All eyes now turn to the final round of group games on Tuesday, where the remaining knockout spots will be decided.
