The Super Eagles Secure Afcon Last 16 Place Despite Late Tunisia Comeback

The three-time champions weathered 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.

The Super Eagles seemed to be in complete control in their pool clash in the Moroccan city, enjoying a 3-0 cushion with just 17 minutes remaining courtesy of strikes from their attacking trio.

However, Montassar Talbi reduced the deficit with a close-range finish from a Hannibal Mejbri set-piece, igniting hopes of a recovery.

The tension escalated when the North Africans were awarded a spot-kick after a VAR review spotted a handling offense by the Nigerian defender. Ali Abdi converted in the dying stages to set up a nail-biting conclusion.

The Carthage Eagles were inches away from a last-gasp leveler in stoppage time, with captain Ferjani Sassi directing a chance just past the post before Ismael Gharbi guided a half-volley past the goal frame.

Clinching First Place

This result ensures that Nigeria, champions of the tournament on three previous occasions, move to 6 points and are guaranteed top spot in their pool with a match still to be contested.

In the next round, they will meet a best third-place side from one of the other preliminary groups.

In the other match, Tunisia remain on three points, with the East African teams tied on a single point after registering a 1-1 stalemate earlier on Saturday.

The final pool fixtures will see the group leaders stay in the city to take on the Cranes on Tuesday, while the Eagles of Carthage return to the capital to face the Taifa Stars.

A Nervy Conclusion

Nigeria, finalists in the 2023 edition, become the second team after the Pharaohs to reach the knockout stage, but coach Eric Chelle and supporters will undoubtedly be feeling relieved.

What looked like set to be a straightforward last period transformed into a nerve-wracking conclusion.

The prolific striker had a goal ruled out for an infringement before opening the scoring right before half-time, precisely placing a glancing effort into the far post from an Atalanta winger cross.

The lead was doubled early in the second period when Wilfred Ndidi climbed above everyone to power home a header from a set-piece corner.

Osimhen then turned provider his teammate for the seemingly decisive goal, before the defender to direct a powerful header past the Nigerian shot-stopper to begin the fightback.

The key moment arrived when a high ball hit the arm of the full-back, with the official awarding a penalty after consulting the pitchside screen.

Although Ali Abdi's successful penalty, Tunisia ultimately came up just short of pulling off a remarkable recovery.

Tunisia's destiny is still in their own hands; a draw against Tunisia will be sufficient to see them through, and their coach will be keen to prevent a recurrence of the past early elimination that led to his previous resignation.