AFCON: Tanzania progress after stalemate, Nigeria maintain perfect record

By SABC Sport
30th December 2025

Tunisia and Tanzania both progressed into the last 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations after playing out a 1-1 draw in Rabat while Nigeria made it three wins from three in Group C.

Nigeria 3-1 Uganda

Nigeria completed a perfect Group C campaign at the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations with a 3–1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday in Fès, sealing top spot and ending Uganda’s tournament.

Already qualified for the Round of 16, the Super Eagles rotated their squad but still controlled the match. Paul Onuachu opened the scoring in the 28th minute, finishing from close range after a pass from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

Uganda’s hopes faded early in the second half when substitute goalkeeper Salim Magoola was sent off for handling the ball outside the box. Nigeria took full advantage, with Raphael Onyedika scoring twice in quick succession in the 62nd and 67th minutes, both assisted by Samuel Chukwueze.

Rogers Mato pulled one back for Uganda with 15 minutes remaining, but it proved only a consolation. Nigeria finished the group with three wins from three matches and will face a third-placed team from Group B or F in the Round of 16, while Uganda exited bottom of the group.

Tanzania 1-1 Tunisia

Tanzania booked a historic place in the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage after a 1–1 draw with Tunisia in their final Group C match, a result that sent both teams through to the last 16 of the 2025 tournament.

Tunisia, who needed a point to secure second place behind Nigeria, dominated possession early but struggled for fluency. Ismael Gharbi struck the post before breaking the deadlock from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute after a VAR review ruled Hazem Mastouri had been fouled in the box.

Tanzania responded with greater urgency after the break and were rewarded in the 54th minute when Feisal Salum fired in a long-range equaliser that caught goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen off guard. Few clear chances followed, with both sides appearing content as the draw suited their qualification hopes.

The result confirmed Tunisia’s place in the knockout rounds and saw Tanzania progress for the first time, advancing as one of the best third-placed teams. Tunisia will face Mali next in Casablanca, while Tanzania stay in Rabat to meet hosts Morocco.