Video: Nigeria crushes Uganda 3-1 in goalkeeper chaos, seals perfect AFCON group stage

Abdullateef Fowewe

Nigeria’s Super Eagles wrapped up a flawless Group C campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a dominant 3-1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday evening at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, advancing to the round of 16 with nine points, eight goals scored, and just four conceded.

The Super Eagles, already assured of top spot after two prior wins, controlled possession at 72% and overwhelmed a desperate Uganda side needing a win to chase a best-third-place berth.

Paul Onuachu struck first in the 28th minute, rifling home a Fisayo Dele-Bashiru assist to make it 1-0 at halftime.

Uganda’s hopes crumbled post-break in bizarre fashion.

Substitute goalkeeper Samuel Magoola earned a straight red card in the 56th minute for handling the ball outside his box to stop Victor Osimhen, forcing midfielder Bright Alhassan off for third-choice keeper Nathan Alionzi—the Cranes’ third goalkeeper in one match after captain Denis Onyango’s halftime exit.

Nigeria pounced on the man advantage.

Raphael Onyedika netted twice in five minutes (62’ and 67’), both assisted by Samuel Chukwueze’s pinpoint crosses, ballooning the lead to 3-0.

Uganda grabbed a consolation through Rogers Mato’s clever 75th-minute chip, but it was too little, too late.

Onyedika earned man-of-the-match honours with his first international goals in over a year, while Chukwueze’s two assists lit up the attack.

Captain Osimhen, masked from a prior injury, drew the red card and had a goal ruled out for offside.

Nigeria now eyes the knockouts with momentum, while Uganda exits with one point from their opener.