Africa Cup Of Nations | Tuesday December 30 | Group C
- Nigeria 3-1 Uganda
- Tunisia 1-1 Tanzania
Uganda’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign ended in pain and reflection on a night that offered fight, flashes of hope and one decisive collapse, as the Cranes bowed out of the 2025 tournament while neighbours Tanzania celebrated a historic step forward.
At the Complexe Sportif de Fès, Nigeria proved too strong, sealing a 3–1 victory to finish Group C with a perfect record and end Uganda’s knockout ambitions. For the Cranes, it was another familiar AFCON tale effort without reward.
Uganda came into the final group game knowing only victory would keep their dream alive. Instead, they were undone by Nigeria’s efficiency, cruel moments of misfortune and a red card that changed everything.
Nigeria struck first in the 28th minute. Sustained pressure paid off when Paul Onuachu reacted quickest in the box to tap home from close range, forcing Uganda onto the back foot.
The contest was open and in perfect flow, punctuated by three quick and unnecessary VAR checks that highlighted how fine the margins were.
Uganda competed bravely without the ball, but the turning point arrived just after the break. Veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango was forced off injured and his replacement, Jamal Salim Magoola, was sent off for handling the ball outside the area. Uganda were suddenly down to ten men, their plans in ruins.
Nigeria wasted no time. Raphael Onyedika took control, striking twice in five ruthless minutes in the 62nd and 67th to put the game beyond reach and underline the Super Eagles’ quality.
Still, Uganda showed character. As they had against Tunisia and Tanzania, they found a goal. Rogers Mato finished calmly in the 75th minute, offering a brief moment of pride and belief, even if the outcome was already clear.
Nigeria stayed composed to the end. The final whistle confirmed Uganda’s exit, one point from three matches and another early departure that will leave questions about missed chances like penalty against Tanzania.
Elsewhere in Group C, Tanzania were celebrating. At the Stade Olympique Annexe, they held Tunisia to a dramatic 1–1 draw to secure a place in the Round of 16.
Tunisia led just before halftime through Ismaël Gharbi, but Feisal Salum’s early second-half equaliser kept Tanzania’s dream alive.
Tunisia finished second on four points, while Tanzania advanced in third with two, qualifying as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams ahead of Angola and Comoros in Group B and A respectively.
Nigeria march on as genuine contenders, making 8 changes and still secure a comfortable win over the Cranes to top group C.
