The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured their place in the round of sixteen of the AFCON 2025 tournament as Group C leaders following a commanding 3-1 victory over Uganda on December 30th, 2025, at the Complexe Sportif De Stade in Fes, Morocco. This result confirmed Uganda's elimination from the group stage, as Paul Put's side failed to secure the necessary points to advance.

Ugandan and St Johnstone striker Uche Ikpeazu, whose mother hails from Uganda and father from Nigeria, shared his experience of the pivotal match. Despite representing Uganda, he expressed immense respect for the Super Eagles, labelling the game as the "hardest of his career." Ikpeazu, who played 85 minutes and was the most fouled player on the pitch, acknowledged Nigeria's superior quality, stating, "The Super Eagles are the standard Uganda aspire to." Following Uganda's exit, Ikpeazu unequivocally declared his support for Nigeria to lift the AFCON trophy, citing their "special group," "tight group," "humble" nature, and strong "togetherness."

Nigeria's goals came from Paul Onuachu, who opened the scoring, and a brace from Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika, earning him the Man of the Match award. Samuel Chukwueze, on loan from AC Milan, played a crucial creative role, providing assists for both of Onyedika's goals – continuing a remarkable trend where Chukwueze has assisted all three of Onyedika's goals for the Super Eagles. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru also contributed creatively, setting up Onuachu's first goal. Onyedika expressed his gratitude to Chukwueze, jokingly stating he needed to get him a gift. Despite his personal success, Onyedika remained humble, emphasizing his goal to help the team in any possible way, and highlighted the support and advice from teammates like Dele-Bashiru and Ndidi.

Coach Eric Chelle opted for a rotated lineup, given Nigeria's secured progression as group leaders. This allowed several players to gain valuable minutes, including Francis Uzoho, Ryan Alebiosu, Igoh Ogbu, and others. Blackburn Rovers full-back Ryan Alebiosu made his international debut, delivering a solid performance with two interceptions, three clearances, four recoveries, and an impressive 95 percent pass accuracy. Fellow defender Igoh Ogbu, making his first start of the tournament, praised Alebiosu's performance, stating he "had a good game" and would "reach the top heights." Ogbu also commended Calvin Bassey, who partnered him at center-back in the first half.

However, the victory was tinged with unfortunate news for Alebiosu. After the match, it was revealed that the 24-year-old suffered a deep cut on his right leg, an injury that will unfortunately rule him out for the remainder of the tournament. This represents a significant blow for Coach Chelle, as Alebiosu was considered the main cover for Bright Osayi-Samuel at right-back. Despite this setback, the Super Eagles will push forward in the competition, carrying the aspirations of supporters like Uche Ikpeazu.