Rabat, Morocco. Nigeria delivered a statement performance at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, edging past Tunisia 3–2 in a pulsating encounter that lived up to its billing as a clash of continental heavyweights. In a match packed with goals, momentum swings, and tactical intrigue, the Super Eagles showed resilience and attacking sharpness to overcome a spirited Tunisian side.
From the opening whistle, both teams set out with intent, pressing high and moving the ball quickly. Nigeria struck first, asserting their attacking quality early. A swift passing move through midfield split Tunisia’s defensive lines, allowing the Super Eagles to take the lead and ignite the stands. The early goal settled Nigeria’s nerves and forced Tunisia to adjust their shape.
Tunisia, however, refused to be overawed. The Carthage Eagles responded with greater urgency, tightening their midfield and exploiting space down the flanks. Their persistence paid off midway through the first half when a well-worked attack culminated in a clinical finish, drawing them level and swinging momentum in their favour.
The game opened up after the equaliser, with end-to-end action thrilling fans. Nigeria regained the lead before halftime, capitalising on a momentary lapse in Tunisian concentration at the back. A precise delivery into the box was met with authority, restoring Nigeria’s advantage and sending them into the break with a narrow 2–1 lead.
The second half began at an even higher tempo. Tunisia emerged determined, pushing numbers forward and testing Nigeria’s defensive organisation. Their bold approach was rewarded when they found a second equaliser, finishing off a flowing move that exposed space between Nigeria’s midfield and defence. At 2–2, the match hung delicately in the balance.
What followed was a tactical chess match. Nigeria’s coach responded with timely substitutions, injecting fresh legs and pace into the attack, while Tunisia looked to control possession and frustrate their opponents. The Super Eagles gradually regained control, using their physicality and speed to stretch Tunisia’s back line.
The decisive moment arrived in the final stages. Nigeria pressed high, forced a turnover, and launched a rapid counterattack. With Tunisia caught pushing forward, the Super Eagles struck with ruthless efficiency, scoring the third and decisive goal to make it 3–2. The finish sparked wild celebrations among Nigerian supporters and underscored the team’s attacking depth.
Despite late pressure from Tunisia, Nigeria held firm, managing the closing minutes with composure and game intelligence. Tunisia threw bodies forward in search of a dramatic equaliser, but Nigeria’s defence stood strong, seeing out the contest amid a tense atmosphere.
Several players stood out on the night. Nigeria’s attackers were incisive and direct, constantly troubling Tunisia’s defence, while their midfield provided the balance between creativity and steel. Tunisia, meanwhile, earned plaudits for their fighting spirit and tactical discipline, never allowing Nigeria an easy ride.
Tactically, Nigeria’s ability to transition quickly from defence to attack proved decisive. Their pace on the break and willingness to commit players forward at the right moments gave them the edge. Tunisia showed quality in possession and moments of defensive solidity, but were ultimately undone by Nigeria’s clinical finishing.
The result is a significant boost for Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament favourites. For Tunisia, the narrow defeat is a setback, but their performance suggests they remain strong contenders capable of troubling any opponent.
In the end, this five-goal classic will be remembered as one of AFCON 2025’s standout matches so far—a contest that showcased African football at its finest, blending passion, skill, and unrelenting drama.