December 30, (THEWILL) — The Super Eagles of Nigeria completed a perfect group stage run at the Africa Cup of Nations with a 3-1 win over Uganda, who played most of the match with 10 men following a red card.
Paul Onuachu opened the scoring in the 28th minute, stretching to connect with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s low cross at the edge of the six-yard box.
Uganda had begun the match brightly, though they failed to test Nigeria’s goal before Denis Onyango made an exceptional point-blank save to deny Onuachu moments before the breakthrough.
The match turned decisively in Nigeria’s favour when substitute goalkeeper Salim Magoola received a straight red card in the 56th minute.
He had rushed out of his area to handle Victor Osimhen’s long-range effort, forcing Uganda to field third-choice keeper Nafian Alionzi.
Raphael Onyedika capitalised on the numerical advantage with two goals in quick succession.
The midfielder slotted home from a tight angle on the right after Samuel Chukwueze’s pass in the 62nd minute, then added his second five minutes later when left unmarked near the penalty spot to guide Chukwueze’s cutback into the net.
Rogers Mato pulled one back for Uganda in the 75th minute with a delicate finish over Francis Uzoho.
Nigeria progressed from Group C with maximum points, whilst Tunisia advanced to the knockout rounds after drawing 1-1 with Tanzania in the final group match.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
