Nigeria’s Resilience Shines in Dramatic Victory Over Tunisia
Nigeria’s Super Eagles showcased remarkable resilience and determination in a thrilling 3-2 victory against Tunisia in Fez on Saturday night. This win secured their place in the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, marking a significant moment in the tournament for the Nigerian team.
Frank Onyeka, the Brentford midfielder, emphasized that the team remained undeterred by the passionate Tunisian support. He highlighted the importance of maintaining focus on their game plan rather than being influenced by the opposition’s crowd. “No, the fans don’t shake us. It’s always the same, and every time I come into the team, I want to give what I can to help the team offensively and defensively,” Onyeka stated.
The midfielder also spoke about the motivation behind Nigeria’s performance, referencing past challenges when Tunisia eliminated them from the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon. “Yes, we wanted to give back for what happened in Cameroon, so we had to come out really strong. We are happy that we got the three points.”
Onyeka praised the effectiveness of Nigeria’s pressing game, which disrupted Tunisia throughout the match. “I think our game plan worked really well. We pressed them high and didn’t give them any chance to play. That’s what made the difference.” He expressed confidence in maintaining this approach for the upcoming clash with Uganda, stating, “We’re still going to play the same way we played today. We’re not going to drop our intensity. We’ll take every game one at a time.”
Despite conceding two late goals, Onyeka was adamant that the team deserved the victory. “We were 3-0 ahead and allowed two easy goals, which is not good. It’s something we need to work on in training so we can improve.”
Onyeka made his debut in the Super Eagles’ midfield for the first time this tournament against Tunisia. His performance was impressive, with 46 touches, a 93 per cent passing accuracy, four interceptions, and one successful tackle. His disciplined play ensured Nigeria’s rhythm remained intact, allowing Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen to dominate the attacking phases.
Nigeria appeared in complete control after taking a 3-0 lead. Lookman provided two assists and scored a goal, while Osimhen opened the scoring with a powerful header just before halftime. Ndidi doubled the advantage from a Lookman corner early in the second half, and Lookman added a fine left-footed strike following a deft cut-back from Osimhen.
Tunisia responded late in the match, with Montassar Talbi heading in a free-kick from Hannibal Mejbri in the 75th minute. Ali Abdi then converted a penalty after VAR adjudged a handball by Bright Osayi-Samuel.
The win ensured Nigeria topped Group C with six points, setting up a final group game against Uganda in Fez on Tuesday.
