Ademola Lookman Stars as Nigeria Beat Tunisia 3-2 to Reach AFCON Round of 16
Ademola Lookman was at the centre of all three Nigeria goals as the Super Eagles held off a late Tunisia fightback to win 3-2, securing a place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) round of 16.
The match started evenly, with both goalkeepers largely untested. Hannibal Mejbri’s early effort was saved, while Victor Osimhen had two headers go wide in the first 11 minutes. Osimhen thought he had opened the scoring after Akor Adams’ shot was parried, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Nigeria took control midway through the first half. Lookman’s precise cross found Osimhen, who rose highest to head the ball past Tunisia’s goalkeeper, giving the Super Eagles a deserved lead. Nigeria’s dominance in midfield and quick attacks through defensive gaps were clear throughout the half.
In the second half, Nigeria extended their lead. Wilfred Ndidi climbed highest to head in Lookman’s corner, scoring his first goal for the national team. Lookman then completed his contribution with a clinical finish after a slick team move, giving Nigeria a seemingly comfortable 3-0 lead.
Tunisia fought back late in the game. Montassar Talbi’s header from a Hannibal Mejbri free kick reduced the deficit, and Ali Abdi converted a penalty in the 87th minute after Bright Osayi-Samuel handled the ball. Ferjani Sassi came close to an equaliser in stoppage time, but his header went narrowly wide.
The result marks Nigeria’s seventh win in their last eight AFCON group-stage matches, showing their consistency in the tournament.
Tunisia suffered their first defeat in five games but remain second in Group C ahead of their final group match against Tanzania. Nigeria will face Uganda in their last group game, already assured of progression to the knockout stages.
