Nigeria football icon Kanu Nwankwo has delivered a powerful message of support to the national team as they prepare for their final group stage match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The Super Eagles, having already secured qualification for the Round of 16, face the Cranes of Uganda tonight, December 30, at the Complexe Sportif de Fez in Morocco.
Super Eagles' Perfect Start in Morocco
The three-time AFCON champions began their campaign impressively, securing a 2-1 victory over Tanzania's Taifa Stars. Goals from Hull City defender Semi Ajayi and Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman sealed the opening win.
In their second Group C fixture, the team delivered a thrilling performance to overcome Tunisia's Carthage Eagles 3-2. This result guaranteed Nigeria's progression to the knockout stages with one match remaining.
The scoring against Tunisia opened in the 44th minute through Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, who connected expertly with a cross from Ademola Lookman. Captain Wilfred Ndidi doubled the advantage just after halftime, heading home a corner delivered by the 2024 CAF Player of the Year. Lookman then capped a magnificent individual display by netting Nigeria's third goal in the 66th minute.
Tunisia mounted a late comeback with goals from Montassar Talbi in the 75th minute and a penalty from Ali Abdi in the 89th, but the Super Eagles held firm to claim all three points.
Papilo's Viral Message of Support
In a video that quickly spread across social media platform X, former Arsenal and Nigeria star Kanu Nwankwo, affectionately known as Papilo, commended the team's spirit and performance. The Atlanta 1996 Olympic gold medalist was particularly pleased to see the players celebrating to the iconic Super Eagles music from the early 1990s.
In his characteristic style, Nwankwo posted: "KAN U BELIEVE IT ? whether you call am kanu Abi na canoe, wetin I know be say, my man de flow ? kanu nwankwo anyi ga enwemere and today anyi enwemere we won ?? congratulations to our dear super eagles @ng_supereagles well done we move to next game we are praying ?."
The message resonated deeply with fans, who flooded the comments with support. One fan, @Tobe_Betting, noted: "Papilo showing why legends matter! That 2-1 over Tanzania proved Chelle's system working. Osimhen, Lookman synchronized perfectly. Tunisia and Uganda waiting. This AFCON run fit go somewhere special for real."
Focus Shifts to Final Group Match
With top spot in Group C still potentially up for grabs, the Super Eagles will aim to maintain their winning momentum against Uganda. The match kicks off later tonight in Fez. Simultaneously, Tanzania will battle Tunisia in Medina, with both teams fighting for a possible Round of 16 berth.
The build-up to the Uganda clash has not been without controversy, however. Legit.ng previously reported criticism from Nigerian football expert Toritseju Williams regarding refereeing decisions and VAR involvement during the Tunisia match. The debate centers on the consistency of officiating in high-stakes AFCON matches, especially those involving Nigeria.
Despite this, the overwhelming focus remains on the pitch, where the Super Eagles, buoyed by the support of legends like Kanu Nwankwo, look to complete a perfect group stage record and carry strong form into the knockout phase of the tournament.
