Nigeria Stay Perfect as 10-Man Uganda Bow Out of AFCON 2025
So this one wrapped up Nigeria’s group stage in style, even if it wasn’t without a few talking points along the way. Nigeria beat Uganda 3–1 in Fez, finishing Group C with a perfect record at AFCON 2025 and underlining why they’re being talked about as serious contenders heading into the knockout rounds.
The tone was set early. Nigeria looked calm, confident, and in control, even though they had already secured top spot before kick-off. Uganda, on the other hand, were playing for survival, knowing that only a big result would keep their tournament alive. Still, it was Nigeria who dictated the pace, keeping the ball well and pushing Uganda back into their own half for long stretches.
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The breakthrough came in the first half and it felt deserved. Paul Onuachu was in the right place at the right time, finishing from close range after sustained pressure. Uganda tried to respond, but Nigeria’s shape held firm, and players like Moses Simon were constantly causing problems down the wings with direct runs and clever movement.
The game really swung in Nigeria’s favour early in the second half, and it was one of those moments you don’t see very often. Uganda’s substitute goalkeeper, Jamal Salim, handled the ball outside his penalty area and was shown a straight red card. From there, the task became even harder for the Cranes, who were already chasing the game.
Nigeria took full advantage. Raphael Onyedika stepped up in a big way, scoring twice in the space of four minutes. Both goals were taken with composure, and they effectively put the match to bed. Uganda’s third-choice goalkeeper was thrown into the action unexpectedly, and Nigeria’s movement and passing proved too sharp.
To their credit, 10-man Uganda didn’t completely fold. They found a moment of quality when Rogers Mato finished neatly to pull one back, giving their small group of travelling fans something to cheer about. It didn’t change the outcome, but it did show some fight and pride in difficult circumstances.
By full-time, the picture was clear. Nigeria ended the group stage as the only team with three wins from three, heading into the last 16 with momentum and growing confidence. Uganda, meanwhile, saw their AFCON journey come to an end, undone by fine margins, tough opposition, and one costly moment. For Nigeria, though, the message was simple: they’re through, they’re balanced, and they’re very much on their way.
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