🔗 Share this article The Super Eagles Secure Africa Cup of Nations Last 16 Place In Spite of Fierce Carthage Eagles Fightback Former Continent's Best Player of the Year the Napoli star was instrumental in Nigeria build a 3-0 advantage, but they were compelled to defend resolutely for a hard-fought win. Nigeria survived a dramatic comeback attempt from their opponents to advance to the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations taking place in the host nation. Jose Peseiro's side appeared to be in complete control in their pool encounter in the Moroccan city, enjoying a three-goal cushion with only 17 minutes left thanks to goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman. Yet, a Tunisian defender reduced the deficit with a close-range finish from a Hannibal Mejbri set-piece, igniting hopes of a recovery. The tension intensified when the North Africans were given a late penalty after a video assistant referee review identified a handling offense by the Nigerian defender. Ali Abdi converted in the dying stages to create a frantic conclusion. The Carthage Eagles came agonizingly close from a last-gasp leveler in stoppage time, with captain Ferjani Sassi directing a opportunity just past the post before a substitute guided a bobbling volley past the goal frame. Securing First Place This result means that Nigeria, winners of the tournament on 3 previous occasions, advance to 6 points and are guaranteed first place in Group C with a match left to be contested. For the round of 16, they will meet a best third-place side from one of Group A, B or F. Meanwhile, Tunisia stay on three points, with Uganda and Tanzania tied on a single point each after playing out a one-all draw earlier on Saturday. The concluding group matches will see Nigeria stay in Fes to take on Uganda on Tuesday, while the Eagles of Carthage travel back to Rabat to face the Taifa Stars. A Nervy Conclusion The Tunisian defender drilled home from the penalty spot to give Tunisia a glimmer of hope of earning a point. Nigeria, finalists in the 2023 edition, become the second team after the Pharaohs to reach the next phase, but coach Eric Chelle and supporters will certainly be feeling relieved. What seemed set to be a straightforward last period transformed into a tense conclusion. Victor Osimhen had a goal disallowed for offside before breaking the deadlock right before half-time, precisely placing a header into the bottom corner from an Atalanta winger cross. The advantage was extended soon in the second period when Wilfred Ndidi rose highest to power home a powerful nod from a Lookman corner. The number 9 then turned provider his teammate for the third goal, only for the defender to direct a header past the Nigerian shot-stopper to initiate the comeback. The pivotal moment came when a high ball hit the arm of the full-back, with the official pointing to the spot after reviewing the pitchside screen. Although the defender's successful penalty, Tunisia ultimately came up just short of pulling off a stirring recovery. Tunisia's destiny is still in their control; a draw against Tunisia will be enough to see them through, and manager Sami Trabelsi will be keen to prevent a recurrence of the 2013 early elimination that led to his previous resignation.