Nigeria wrapped up their Africa Cup of Nations group-stage campaign with a convincing 3–1 victory over Uganda, asserting their dominance despite a dramatic second half that briefly shifted momentum.
The Super Eagles took control early and were rewarded in the 28th minute when Paul Onuachu fired home after a well-weighted pass from Dele Bashiru, giving Nigeria a deserved first-half lead. Uganda struggled to cope with Nigeria’s intensity, relying heavily on defensive blocks and goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who played on despite an injury scare before the break.
Uganda were forced into changes at halftime, but the match turned decisively in Nigeria’s favour in the 57th minute when substitute goalkeeper Salim Magoola was sent off for handling the ball outside the box to deny Victor Osimhen a clear goalscoring opportunity. Reduced to ten men and forced to introduce a third goalkeeper, Uganda were left exposed.
Nigeria capitalised almost immediately. Raphael Onyedika struck twice in quick succession in the 63rd and 67th minutes, both goals coming from sharp passing moves inside the box to put the Super Eagles firmly in control at 3–0.
Captain Victor Osimhen led by example throughout, dropping deep to link play and stretching Uganda’s defence, before being withdrawn late on to applause from the stands.
Uganda, to their credit, refused to fold. In the 75th minute, Mato pulled one back after latching onto a long pass and calmly finishing past Francis Uzoho, who had rushed off his line. The goal briefly lifted Ugandan spirits, but Nigeria managed the closing stages professionally, slowing the tempo and keeping possession.
The match ended after four minutes of added time with Nigeria sealing a confident win that underlined their status as one of the tournament favourites. Uganda exit the group stage having shown flashes of resilience, but ultimately fell short against a superior Nigerian side.
