SOCCER: Nigeria complete perfect group campaign with 3-1 win over Uganda

Raphael Onyedika scored twice, and Paul Onuachu netted his first international goal in four years as Nigeria defeated 10-man Uganda 3-1 in Fes on Tuesday, securing their third win in Group C at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and eliminating the East African side from the tournament.

Nigeria finished at the top of the group with nine points, followed by Tunisia and Tanzania. Tanzania advanced to the last 16 as one of the four best third-placed teams after a 1-1 draw with Tunisia on Tuesday.

Despite resting several regular starters, knowing they had already secured the top spot, Nigeria delivered a dominant performance.

Uganda scored a consolation goal through Rogers Mato and had to use three goalkeepers during the match following an injury and a red card for Salim Magoola, adding to a challenging tournament for coach Paul Put’s squad.

After missing an earlier chance in the first half, Onuachu finally found the back of the net in the 28th minute. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s quick feet on the left created space for a perfect pass to Onuachu, allowing the forward to score his first goal for Nigeria since 2021.

Uganda was reduced to 10 men in the 56th minute when substitute goalkeeper Magoola handled the ball outside the penalty area to stop a shot from Victor Osimhen. Magoola had replaced injured starter Denis Onyango at halftime, forcing Uganda to bring on their third goalkeeper, Nafian Alionzi.

Nigeria extended their lead in the 62nd minute when Onyedika received a pass from Samuel Chukwueze and fired a low shot through Alionzi’s legs. Five minutes later, Onyedika scored his second goal with a side-footed finish, again assisted by Chukwueze.

Uganda pulled one back with 15 minutes remaining. Mato received a pass from Allan Okello, took advantage of a lapse in the Nigerian defense, and lifted the ball over the goalkeeper into the net.

Nigeria’s impressive group-stage performance follows their runner-up finish two years ago and comes after the disappointment of missing out on 2026 World Cup qualification. -Reporting by Nick Said, editing by Ed Osmond and Christian Radnedge/Reuters