The Super Eagles Book Africa Cup of Nations Knockout Spot Despite Late Carthage Eagles Comeback
Ex- Continent's Best Player of the Year the Napoli star was instrumental in Nigeria establish a 3-0 advantage, before they were compelled to defend resolutely for a narrow victory.
The three-time champions survived a stunning comeback attempt from Tunisia to progress to the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations taking place in Morocco.
The Super Eagles appeared to be in complete control in their pool clash in the Moroccan city, enjoying a 3-0 lead with just 17 minutes left courtesy of strikes from their attacking trio.
However, a Tunisian defender pulled one back with a powerful header from a Manchester United midfielder free-kick, sparking hopes of a recovery.
The drama intensified when the North Africans were awarded a spot-kick after a VAR review identified a handball by the Nigerian defender. Ali Abdi converted in the 87th minute to set up a nail-biting finale.
The Carthage Eagles came agonizingly close from a stunning leveler in stoppage time, with their skipper heading a chance just past the post before a substitute guided a half-volley past the upright.
Securing First Place
This result ensures that Nigeria, winners of the competition on three previous occasions, advance to six group points and are assured top spot in their pool with a match left to be contested.
For the round of 16, they will face a best third-place side from one of the other preliminary groups.
Meanwhile, Tunisia stay on three group points, with the East African teams tied on one point after registering a one-all draw earlier on Saturday.
The final group fixtures will see Nigeria stay in the city to take on Uganda on the next matchday, while the Eagles of Carthage return to the capital to confront the Taifa Stars.
A Nervy Finish
Ali Abdi drilled home from the penalty spot to offer Tunisia a glimmer of hope of earning a draw.
Nigeria, finalists in the previous edition, are the second nation after the Pharaohs to reach the next phase, but coach Eric Chelle and fans will certainly be breathing a sigh of relief.
What seemed set to be a straightforward last period transformed into a tense conclusion.
Victor Osimhen had a goal disallowed for an infringement before breaking the deadlock right before half-time, precisely placing a glancing effort into the bottom corner from an Atalanta winger cross.
The advantage was extended early in the second half when Wilfred Ndidi climbed above everyone to power home a header from a Lookman corner.
The number 9 then turned provider his teammate for the third goal, before Montassar Talbi to steer a header past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to initiate the comeback.
The pivotal moment arrived when a high ball struck the forearm of the full-back, with referee Boubou Traore awarding a penalty after reviewing the VAR monitor.
Despite Ali Abdi's confident conversion, the 2004 champions ultimately came up just short of pulling off a remarkable recovery.
Their fate remains in their control; a draw against Tunisia will be sufficient to secure progression, and manager Sami Trabelsi will be keen to prevent a repeat of the past group-stage exit that resulted in his previous resignation.
