Super Eagles of Nigeria
Super Eagles rounded off their Group C campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in style, recording a confident 3–1 victory over Uganda to maintain a perfect record and reinforce their status as one of the tournament favourites.
With qualification for the Round of 16 already secured, head coach Eric Chelle opted for wholesale changes, resting several regular starters. The Franco-Malian tactician made eight alterations to the side that defeated Tunisia, pairing Paul Onuachu with Victor Osimhen in attack, while Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru were drafted into midfield in place of Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi.
One of the major talking points before kick-off was the return of Francis Uzoho, who started in goal ahead of Stanley Nwabali. It was the Omonia Nicosia goalkeeper’s first competitive appearance for Nigeria in nearly two years, and he marked the occasion with a largely assured display.
Despite the changes, Nigeria dominated large spells of the contest, with Chelle’s 4-4-2 formation giving the team balance and attacking fluency. Dele-Bashiru justified his inclusion with an energetic performance, combining effectively with Onuachu to unsettle the Ugandan defence and help set the tone early on.
The match also featured a fierce physical duel between Calvin Bassey and Uganda forward Uchechukwu Ikpeazu, as both players engaged in a bruising battle that epitomised the intensity of the encounter.
Onyedika emerged as the standout performer on the night, scoring twice to more than double his goal tally for the national team. His movement, composure in front of goal and tidy distribution in midfield highlighted the depth of quality available to the Super Eagles, even with several first-choice players on the bench.
Although Uzoho was beaten by a well-executed chip for Uganda’s consolation goal, his overall showing was encouraging and added another positive note to Nigeria’s evening.
The victory marked only the fourth time Nigeria have completed a flawless group-stage run at the Africa Cup of Nations, matching similar achievements in 1992, 2006 and the 2021 edition.
Attention now shifts to the knockout phase, with the Super Eagles set to face a third-placed team from Group B or F in the Round of 16 on January 5. Potential opponents include the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Mozambique or Gabon, setting the stage for an intriguing test as Nigeria continue their quest for continental glory.
