Nigeria Advance to AFCON Knockout Stage After Tunisia Thriller as Senegal Remain in Wait

Nigeria booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage after a dramatic 3–2 victory over Tunisia in Group C on Saturday, a result that confirmed the Super Eagles’ progression while keeping the group finely balanced ahead of the final round of matches.

Forward Victor Osimhen set the tone early, opening the scoring with a powerful header as Nigeria asserted control in the first half. Captain Wilfred Ndidi doubled the lead after the break, rising highest to convert a set-piece and put Nigeria firmly in command.

Nigeria appeared to have sealed the contest when Ademola Lookman added a third goal, capitalising on a loose ball inside the area. Tunisia, however, mounted a late response that tested Nigeria’s resolve.

Defender Ali Abdi converted a penalty to reduce the deficit before Ferjani Sassi headed home in stoppage time, setting up a tense finish. Nigeria held on through the closing minutes to secure the win and move onto six points, guaranteeing a top-two finish in the group.

The result means Nigeria are assured of a place in the last 16 with a match to spare, continuing a strong group-stage showing that has highlighted their attacking depth and physical presence. Tunisia, meanwhile, remain in contention for qualification as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, pending results elsewhere.

In Group D, defending champions Senegal were held to a 1–1 draw by the Democratic Republic of Congo, delaying confirmation of their knockout qualification. Senegal equalised after falling behind but were unable to find a late winner, leaving their fate to be decided in the final group fixture.

The Africa Cup of Nations, featuring 24 teams, continues across Morocco, with the knockout phase set to begin next week as group standings across the six pools take shape.

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🔗 Sources

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