Nigeria secured a hard-fought 3–2 win over Tunisia on Saturday night to book an early place in the Africa Cup of Nations last 16, but only after surrendering a commanding three-goal cushion and surviving a chaotic closing spell.
The Super Eagles dominated large stretches and were rewarded in the 44th minute when Victor Osimhen—wearing a protective mask—rose at the back post to head home Ademola Lookman’s cross, giving Nigeria a deserved lead on the stroke of halftime.
Nigeria struck again moments after the restart. Captain Wilfred Ndidi climbed above the Tunisian defence to power in a header from a corner, doubling the advantage and putting Tunisia under severe pressure.
The third goal arrived in the 67th minute and appeared to settle the contest. Osimhen turned provider, dragging the ball into Lookman’s path; the winger hesitated but still found the net, his effort going in off the post to make it 3–0.
Tunisia comeback sets up frantic finish
Tunisia, however, refused to fold. Defender Montassar Talbi pulled one back in the 74th minute, meeting a Hannibal Mejbri free kick as Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali slipped while attempting to keep it out.
With five minutes left, Tunisia were handed a route back into the game when a clearance attempt struck Bright Osayi-Samuel’s hand inside the area. Ali Abdi converted the resulting penalty emphatically to reduce the deficit to 3–2 and ignite late pressure.
Tunisia came close to a dramatic equaliser deep in stoppage time, but Nigeria held on to take all three points—and, crucially, to confirm qualification from Group C with a game still to play.
What Nigeria’s victory means
The win gives Nigeria six points from two matches, putting them clear at the top of the group and into the knockout rounds. Tunisia remain second, while Tanzania and Uganda trail behind after a draw earlier in the day.
