The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Tunisia in their second Group C encounter of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025) in Morocco, officially sealing their place in the knockout stages with a game to spare. The highly anticipated clash at the Complexe Sportif de Fès saw Nigeria demonstrate significant attacking prowess to build a commanding three-goal lead, before surviving a tense late fightback from the Tunisian side, which tested the nerves of both players and coaching staff.

Ademola Lookman emerged as the Man of the Match, playing a pivotal role in all three of Nigeria's goals. Victor Osimhen ended his seven-game AFCON goal drought in the 44th minute, heading home Lookman’s precise cross to give Nigeria a deserved 1-0 lead at half-time. Five minutes into the second half, captain Wilfred Ndidi doubled the advantage, expertly converting a Lookman corner for his first-ever international goal, which he celebrated with a Nwankwo Kanu-inspired tribute dedicated to his father. Lookman then added Nigeria's third in the 67th minute, receiving a selfless cut-back from Victor Osimhen after a through-pass from Alex Iwobi, to blast home a left-footed shot that sealed his two assists and one goal performance.

Despite Nigeria appearing to be cruising, a lapse in concentration, shape, and game management opened the door for Tunisia. Montassar Talbi headed home from a free-kick in the 74th minute, and Ali Abdi converted a controversial VAR-awarded penalty in the 87th minute, injecting real tension into the closing stages. However, Nigeria held firm through seven minutes of stoppage time to secure the three points and confirm their qualification for the last 16 for the 16th consecutive time, also sealing top spot in Group C.

Head coach Eric Chelle admitted to enduring "nightmares" from the final 15 minutes, stating, "I was going a little bit crazy about what was happening because the players deserved a big game." While acknowledging the late scare exposed defensive vulnerabilities, Chelle praised his side for scoring three goals against Tunisia, a team renowned for its disciplined defense and having not conceded a single goal in ten World Cup qualifying matches. He stressed the need for his team to learn from the comeback and improve, stating it would keep him and his players motivated.

Tunisian players like Ali Abdi and Yan Valery reflected on their side's performance, admitting they showed "too much respect for Nigeria" in the first half and were "not aggressive enough in the duels." Abdi highlighted the team's decision to "give it our all" in the last 15 minutes, showing pride despite being 3-0 down. Valery emphasized the need for consistency for the full 90 minutes against quality opponents. Despite the defeat, they expressed pride in the squad and a determination to learn from their mistakes for future matches.

Individual player performances garnered significant attention. Ademola Lookman, with four goal involvements in two group matches (two goals, two assists), confirmed his fitness after an injury scare and underscored his focus on team success. Wilfred Ndidi's leadership and first goal were lauded, with his understated social media post prioritizing the win. Frank Onyeka, brought into a three-man midfield as a tactical change by Chelle, delivered an exceptional performance, boasting 93% pass accuracy and seven defensive contributions, earning praise from teammate Chidozie Awaziem for his crucial role.

Conversely, Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali came under scrutiny after conceding twice from Tunisia's only two shots on target, particularly for a costly slip on the first goal. Nwabali admitted he had been battling injuries leading up to the tournament, crediting the medical team for enabling him to play. His performance raised concerns for Eric Chelle, with calls from some fans for him to be benched if his struggles persist. Bright Osayi-Samuel also faced criticism for his loss of focus leading to the controversial penalty, though he described the overall victory as a "statement win" for Nigeria's AFCON ambitions.

Key takeaways from the match included Nigeria’s effective but high-cost high press, which led to fatigue after 70 minutes, necessitating tactical solutions from Chelle. Nwabali's command and decision-making were identified as areas needing rapid improvement for tougher knockout opponents. While qualification is secured, maintaining momentum and sealing Group C's top spot against Uganda on Tuesday remains important for a more favorable draw. The VAR-awarded penalty was acknowledged as controversial, but Nigeria's ability to score three goals against Tunisia's formidable defense was a strong attacking statement. Ultimately, despite the attacking flair, the Super Eagles' defensive standards, having conceded three goals in two matches, must rise for them to contend for the title.

Nigeria will now face Uganda in their final group game, where a draw will be enough to finish as Group C winners. Tunisia, needing to regroup, will play Tanzania as they aim to keep their tournament hopes alive.