By Olukayode Olumuyiwa.
Nigeria capped off a perfect group stage at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by beating Uganda 3-1 on matchday three. The result consigned the Cranes of Uganda to elimination in their first finals appearance since 2019.
Clinical Efficiency Despite Changes
With their place at the summit of Group C already secured, Nigeria boss Eric Chelle made eight changes to his starting XI from the previous win over Tunisia. Despite the rotation, the Super Eagles’ depth was on full display as they dominated the first half. Only a miss-kick from Samuel Chukwueze, following dazzling work on the wing by Moses Simon, prevented an even earlier lead.
The opening goal eventually arrived via Paul Onuachu. After being denied from point-blank range by 40-year-old veteran keeper Denis Onyango, Onuachu found the net just a minute later. He turned home a cutback from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru to record his fourth international goal.
Uganda’s Goalkeeping Woes
Things went from bad to worse for Uganda after the break. Having failed to register a single shot on target in the first half, their comeback hopes were further dampened by a crisis in goal.
Salim Magoola, who replaced the injured Onyango at halftime, was shown a straight red card for handling the ball outside the area while blocking a shot from Victor Osimhen. This forced Uganda to bring on their third goalkeeper of the match, Nafian Alionzi.
Onyedika Double Seals the Win
Nigeria quickly took advantage of the situation. Raphael Onyedika surged into the box and slotted the ball through Alionzi’s legs to double the lead after being found by Chukwueze. The same duo combined again for the third goal, with Onyedika finding acres of space to slot home after Chukwueze beat his marker.
Final Standings
A bruising evening for Paul Put’s men ended with a moment of individual brilliance when Rogers Mato placed an exquisite chip past Francis Uzoho for a consolation strike. However, the defeat meant Uganda finished at the bottom of Group C, eight points adrift of Nigeria.
While Uganda heads home, Nigeria moves into the knockout stages full of confidence after a flawless preliminary round.
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