Nigeria completed a flawless group stage campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations, dispatching 10-man Uganda 3-1 in Fès to become only the fourth time they have won all three group matches at the tournament.
Eric Chelle’s side, already assured of progression, demonstrated their strength in depth with a much-changed lineup captained by Victor Osimhen. Paul Onuachu broke the deadlock in the 28th minute, finishing from close range after excellent work down the left from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, marking the striker’s first international goal in four years.
Uganda’s hopes of salvaging something from the match evaporated in the 56th minute when substitute goalkeeper Salim Magoola was shown a straight red card for handling outside his area whilst attempting to deny Osimhen. With third-choice goalkeeper Nafian Alionzi pressed into action, Nigeria seized control.
Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika capitalised on the numerical advantage, drilling home his first goal through the legs of Alionzi in the 62nd minute after receiving Samuel Chukwueze’s pass. The midfielder doubled his tally just five minutes later, applying a composed side-footed finish following another assist from the influential Chukwueze.
Rogers Mato scored a consolation for Uganda in the 75th minute, lifting the ball over Francis Uzoho after the Nigerian defence momentarily lost concentration. However, it proved too little, too late for the Cranes, who exit the tournament without a victory.
Nigeria’s perfect record—matching feats from 1992, 2006 and 2022—sees them top Group C with nine points.
They will face one of the best third-placed teams in the Round of 16 on 5 January, whilst Uganda depart Morocco with just two points from their three matches.
