The Super Eagles have secured their spot in the Round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a thrilling encounter against the Eagles of Carthage (3-2). A victory that bears the mark of one man: Ademola Lookman.
A frustrating start for Osimhen
Nigeria entered the pitch with the ambitions befitting last edition's finalists. Yet it wasn't Victor Osimhen who kickstarted the Nigerian machine – quite the opposite. The Galatasaray striker endured a nightmarish first half in front of goal.
First, a missed header from an Adams cross (9'), then another wasted chance three minutes later from a Lookman corner (12'). As if that wasn't enough, the former Lille man saw a goal ruled out for offside at the moment of Adams' strike (18'). A frustrating opening that could have proved costly against a defensive Tunisian side.
Lookman, the Super Eagles' savior
Nigeria eventually found the key through adversity. In the 44th minute, on a pinpoint cross from Lookman, Osimhen made amends for his earlier errors by planting an unstoppable header behind Talbi. An overly demonstrative celebration earned him a yellow card, but the damage was done for Tunisia.
After the break, the Nigerians pressed home their advantage. Ndidi, again served by an inspired Lookman, doubled the lead with a header (50'). The reigning African Ballon d'Or winner then capped off his masterclass by scoring the third goal himself after tremendous work from Osimhen on the flank (67').
Tunisia's late awakening
At 3-0, the game seemed over. But the Eagles of Carthage found unexpected reserves in the final minutes. Talbi, culpable for the second goal, redeemed himself by pulling one back from a Mejbri pass (74'). Ali Abdi then converted a penalty won after a handball by Osayi-Samuel (87').
The closing stages grew tense, but Nigeria held firm. One question remains: why did Tunisia wait so long to show this fighting spirit? Manager Sami Trabelsi will need answers before the decisive match against Tanzania for second place in the group.
Key takeaways
- Lookman delivers: involved in all three Nigerian goals, the Atalanta star confirms his status as Africa's best player
- Osimhen's resilience: despite his early misses, the striker stayed focused and ultimately broke the deadlock
- Tunisia in danger: the Eagles of Carthage will fight for survival against Tanzania on matchday three
- Nigeria through: the Super Eagles are already qualified and can approach the rest of the tournament with confidence
With this victory, Nigeria sends a clear message to their rivals: the 2023 finalists fully intend to go all the way this time. The Osimhen-Lookman partnership is striking fear across the continent.