The Super Eagles Book Africa Cup of Nations Knockout Place In Spite of Fierce Tunisia Fightback

Nigeria survived a dramatic comeback attempt from their opponents to progress to the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations being held in the host nation.

Jose Peseiro's side appeared to be in complete control in their Group C encounter in the Moroccan city, holding a three-goal cushion with only 17 minutes remaining thanks to goals from their attacking trio.

Yet, a Tunisian defender pulled one back with a powerful header from a Manchester United midfielder set-piece, sparking hopes of a turnaround.

The tension escalated when the North Africans were given a spot-kick after a video assistant referee check spotted a handball by the Nigerian defender. Ali Abdi calmly slotted home in the 87th minute to create a frantic conclusion.

Tunisia came agonizingly close from a last-gasp equalizer in stoppage time, with their skipper heading a chance just past the post before Ismael Gharbi guided a half-volley past the goal frame.

Clinching First Place

This result ensures that the Super Eagles, winners of the tournament on 3 previous occasions, advance to six points and are guaranteed top spot in their pool with a match left to be contested.

For the round of 16, they will face a third-placed side from one of Group A, B or F.

Meanwhile, Tunisia stay on 3 group points, with Uganda and Tanzania tied on one point each after registering a one-all draw earlier on Saturday.

The final pool matches will see the group leaders remain in Fes to take on the Cranes on the next matchday, while Tunisia return to Rabat to confront the Taifa Stars.

A Nervy Conclusion

Nigeria, finalists in the previous tournament, become the next team after Egypt to reach the next phase, but coach Eric Chelle and fans will undoubtedly be feeling relieved.

What looked like set to be a straightforward final quarter morphed into a nerve-wracking affair.

The prolific striker had a goal ruled out for an infringement before breaking the deadlock right before half-time, precisely placing a header into the far post from an Ademola Lookman cross.

The lead was doubled early in the second period when Wilfred Ndidi rose highest to thump in a header from a Lookman corner.

Osimhen then turned provider his teammate for the third goal, before Montassar Talbi to direct a powerful header past the Nigerian shot-stopper to initiate the fightback.

The key moment came when a looping cross hit the arm of Bright Osayi-Samuel, with the official pointing to the spot after reviewing the pitchside screen.

Although Ali Abdi's successful penalty, the 2004 champions ultimately fell short of completing a remarkable comeback.

Their fate is still in their own hands; a point against Tanzania will be enough to secure progression, and their coach will be keen to avoid a recurrence of the past group-stage exit that led to his departure.