(Watch) Nigeria vs Uganda: Paul Onuachu gives Super Eagles 1–0 halftime lead in AFCON 2025 Group C

30.12.25 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Uganda

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Nigeria

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Nigeria head into the break with 1-0 advantage over Uganda in their final AFCON 2025 Group C match at the Complexe Sportif de Fès with Paul Onuachu providing the breakthrough just before the half-hour mark.

Already qualified and assured of top spot in the group, the Super Eagles made several changes to their starting lineup but still looked the more composed and threatening side throughout first half defined by sustained Nigerian pressure, an injury scare for Uganda and decisive moment inside the penalty area.

Onuachu rewards Nigerian pressure

Nigeria’s goal arrived in the 28 minute as Fisayo Dele-Bashiru supplied the assist and Onuachu reacted quickest in the box to convert from close range.

The strike came at the end of Nigeria’s most dominant spell during which they increasingly pinned Uganda deep and moved the ball with greater tempo & purpose.

Moments earlier, veteran Uganda goalkeeper Denis Onyango had kept his side level with sharp save from Onuachu before briefly going down injured and receiving treatment. Onyango was able to continue but Nigeria capitalised soon after as their pressure finally told.

Uganda struggle for cutting edge

Uganda began the match with clear urgency knowing only positive result would keep their knockout hopes alive. While they showed flashes of invention in the final third including standout moment of individual skil, clear chances were limited by Nigeria’s defensive structure and experience.

At the other end, Nigeria defender Calvin Bassey was shown early yellow card in the 4 minute but the Super Eagles remained largely in control of proceedings.

Qualification picture tightens

With Nigeria in front at half time, Uganda face increasingly steep task after the restart. Matters are further complicated by developments elsewhere in Group C where Tunisia took first half lead against Tanzania tightening the race for the remaining qualification places and increasing the pressure on the Cranes to respond quickly.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Uganda

Nigeria

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations