Nigeria wrapped up their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group campaign in style with a commanding 3–1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday evening in Fès, producing a dominant display despite wholesale changes to the starting lineup.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle rang the changes, making eight alterations from the side that edged Tunisia 3–2 days earlier.
The reshuffle did little to disrupt Nigeria’s rhythm, as the West Africans controlled proceedings from start to finish against a Ugandan side that ended the contest with ten men.
Paul Onuachu set the tone for Nigeria, opening the scoring after recovering from an earlier miss.
The Trabzonspor striker responded well to that setback, leading the line effectively and combining intelligently with Victor Osimhen.
His performance underlined his growing case as a reliable partner for Osimhen in attack.
The standout performer on the night, however, was Raphael Onyedika.
Making his first competitive start under Chelle, the Club Brugge midfielder delivered a masterclass in composure and timing, scoring twice in the second half to put the game beyond Uganda’s reach.
Neat in possession and tactically disciplined, Onyedika’s display earned him widespread Man of the Match plaudits.
Samuel Chukwueze was a constant threat on the right flank, registering two assists with clever deliveries and incisive movement, while Moses Simon tormented defenders with his pace and direct running on the opposite wing.
Captain for the evening, Victor Osimhen led by example. Though he did not score, the Napoli striker played a crucial role in Nigeria’s attacking play and drew the foul that resulted in the Ugandan goalkeeper’s dismissal, shifting the balance decisively in Nigeria’s favour.
At the back, Calvin Bassey and debutant Igoh Ogbu provided defensive stability, while goalkeeper Francis Uzoho impressed with a composed showing, unlucky not to come away with a clean sheet.
The convincing win underlined Nigeria’s depth and adaptability, as the Super Eagles head into the knockout stages with confidence, momentum, and several players making strong cases for bigger roles as the tournament progresses.
