The Super Eagles of Nigeria capped a flawless group-stage campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a convincing 3–1 win over Uganda on Tuesday, extending their dominance in Group C.
Raphael Onyedika stole the show with a second-half brace, scoring twice in five minutes as Nigeria overwhelmed the Cranes, who battled bravely despite being reduced to 10 men.
Nigeria took control early and got their breakthrough in the 28th minute through Paul Onuachu.
The striker made amends for an earlier miss by stretching to turn home a low cross from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru after a slick attacking move.
The Super Eagles dominated long spells of the first half, with Victor Osimhen and Dele-Bashiru both going close, while Samuel Chukwueze continued to trouble Uganda’s defence down the right flank.
After the break, Nigeria wasted little time in stretching its lead.
In the 62nd minute, Chukwueze squared a precise pass for Onyedika, who controlled expertly before calmly finishing into the bottom corner.
Five minutes later, the midfielder struck again, drilling a low shot from the edge of the box after latching onto another cut-back from Chukwueze, with Onuachu involved in the build-up.
Uganda grabbed a late consolation in the 75th minute as substitute Okello threaded a clever pass to Mato, who chipped the ball over Francis Uzoho to make it 3–1.
Nigeria could have scored more. Osimhen headed wide from Dele-Bashiru’s cross, while Chidozie Awaziem blasted over from close range following a set piece.
Earlier, Osimhen had tested Uganda captain Denis Onyango with a fierce effort, although the chance was ruled offside.
Onyango later went down twice with an ankle issue but was able to continue.
Calvin Bassey was booked early and later replaced at halftime, as both teams made changes in the second half.
The victory sealed Nigeria’s perfect group-stage record and confirmed Uganda’s exit from the tournament, following Tanzania’s draw with Tunisia in the other Group C fixture.
