Nigeria concluded a flawless group stage at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a 3-1 victory over ten-man Uganda on Tuesday, sending the East African side home. Already assured of top spot in Group C, Super Eagles boss Eric Chelle made eight changes, but his side’s depth proved too much for the Cranes.

Paul Onuachu broke the deadlock, turning home Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s cutback in the first half for his first international goal in four years. Uganda’s hopes of a comeback, already slim, evaporated early in the second half when goalkeeper Salim Magoola was sent off for handling outside the area to deny Victor Osimhen.

Nigeria capitalized on the numerical advantage. Raphael Onyedika scored twice, first slotting through substitute keeper Nafian Alionzi’s legs after a Chukwueze assist, and then finishing calmly from inside the box after another link-up with Chukwueze.

Uganda’s Rogers Mato provided a late consolation with an exquisite chip over Francis Uzoho, but it was not enough to prevent elimination. The defeat meant Uganda finished bottom of the group on their first AFCON finals appearance since 2019.

Nigeria midfielder Raphael Onyedika, reflecting on his brace, said, “It feels good to contribute with goals. The most important thing is we won and we are full of confidence moving forward.” Uganda’s coach Paul Put acknowledged a tough evening, stating, “The red card made a difficult task impossible. We showed spirit at the end, but congratulations to Nigeria.”

The Super Eagles, having won all three group matches, now advance to the knockout stages as one of the tournament’s form teams.