Nigeria delivered one of the standout performances of the AFCON 2025 group stage, edging Tunisia 3–2 in a thrilling contest that reinforced their status as early title contenders, Footynaija.com reports.
Eric Chelle’s side showed attacking bite, physical presence, and just enough control to see off a stubborn Tunisian team that refused to go easily.
Victor Osimhen set the pace with his nonstop movement and clinical finish, while Ademola Lookman and Wilfred Ndidi added crucial goals in a match full of momentum shifts. Tunisia had their moments, but Nigeria’s quick responses and composure under pressure made the difference.
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Here is how each Super Eagles player performed.
Stanley Nwabali – 6.5
Wasn’t entirely comfortable, especially in the closing stages. Conceded twice, but neither was his fault. Handled crosses well enough, stayed composed under pressure, and his distribution remained tidy. The late yellow card reflected more of Nigeria’s nervy finish than his own mistake.
Bright Osayi-Samuel – 6.0
Energetic going forward and constantly involved, but his night was marked by the handball that led to Tunisia’s penalty. Offered width and drive on the right, yet defensive concentration dipped at a costly moment.
Semi Ajayi – 6.3
Solid for long spells and strong in aerial duels, though he picked up a yellow card and conceded several set pieces. Did his job physically, but Tunisia’s late pressure exposed the back line as a unit.
Calvin Bassey – 6.8
Aggressive, committed, and often proactive in stepping out of defence. Won fouls, blocked space, and supported attacks when possible. One of the steadier defenders on the night.
Bruno Onyemaechi – 6.6
Disciplined display on the left. Drew fouls, tracked runners, and rarely looked flustered. Did not grab headlines but gave Nigeria balance defensively.
Wilfred Ndidi – 7.8
A dominant midfield display capped by a second-half goal. He covered ground relentlessly, broke up play, and stayed active in Tunisia’s half. His header made it 2–0 and put Nigeria fully in control.
Frank Onyeka – 6.7
Worked hard in midfield, pressed aggressively, and helped Nigeria maintain intensity. Not spectacular but effective until he was withdrawn.
Alex Iwobi – 6.9
Linked play intelligently and kept Nigeria ticking in possession. Less flashy than some teammates, but his movement and positioning helped stretch Tunisia’s shape.
Ademola Lookman – 9.0
Man of the match. One goal and two assists tell the story. Supplied the cross for Osimhen’s opener, delivered the corner for Ndidi’s goal, then finished brilliantly on the break to make it 3–0. Constant threat and decisive in key moments.
Victor Osimhen – 8.2
Led the line with authority. Scored the opening goal, provided the assist for Lookman’s strike, and occupied Tunisia’s defenders throughout. Picked up a yellow card, but his overall influence was massive.
Akor Adams – 6.5
Put himself about, linked play well, and forced saves. Did not score, but his movement and physical presence helped create space for others before he was substituted.
Substitutes
Chidera Ejuke – 6.6
Lively after coming on. Carried the ball well, won corners, and tested the goalkeeper late on.
Moses Simon – 6.2
Added pace and width late in the game, helping Nigeria relieve pressure in the closing stages.
Chidozie Awaziem – N/A
Introduced very late to help see out the game.
