In a riveting Africa Cup of Nations showdown in Fès, Nigeria edged Tunisia 3–2 in a match packed with twists, drama and late-game tension. The result booked Nigeria’s place in the Round of 16 and kept Group C wide open for more excitement.
Nigeria seized control through a well-worked attack just before halftime. Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen rose highest to head home from an Ademola Lookman cross in the 44th minute, giving the Super Eagles the lead they richly deserved after outplaying the visitors early on.
Barely five minutes after the break, Nigeria doubled the advantage when Wilfred Ndidi headed in another precise Lookman delivery — his first goal for the national team. Lookman then capped a swift counter-attack in the 67th minute with a composed finish to make it 3–0.
Rather than capitulate, Tunisia mounted a spirited comeback. Montassar Talbi headed in from a set-piece in the 74th minute to spark hope, and a VAR-awarded penalty in the 87th — coolly converted by Ali Abdi — set up a tense finale. Despite pressure in added time, Nigeria stood firm to preserve the win.
What no one saw coming was Tunisia’s late resurgence. After conceding three in under 70 minutes, few expected them to claw back two goals and force nervous final minutes. The Carthage Eagles almost salvaged a point, transforming what looked like a routine qualifying win into a thrilling cliffhanger.
- With two wins from two games, the Super Eagles are on course to top Group C and have already secured a Round of 16 spot — a vital step in their AFCON ambitions.
- Despite defeat, the comeback shows Tunisia remain dangerous and capable of punching above their weight as the group phase progresses.
- The late goals and frantic finish will be remembered as one of the more entertaining encounters of the group stage.
Nigeria’s flair up front — led by Osimhen and Lookman — combined with a renewed fightback from Tunisia made this one of the most exciting AFCON matches so far. A pulsating night in Morocco that sets the tone for more drama ahead.
About The Author
