Nigeria Seal Last-16 Spot as AFCON Group Stage Takes Shape

The Post On Sunday

Nigeria became the second team to book a place in the Africa Cup of Nations last 16 after edging Tunisia 3–2 in an entertaining Group C encounter, while Senegal were held to a 1–1 draw by DR Congo in a match rescued by Sadio Mané.

The Super Eagles delivered a dominant performance for large spells but were forced to withstand a late Tunisian fightback to secure their second victory of the group stage. Victor Osimhen opened the scoring a minute before halftime, capitalising on Nigeria’s sustained pressure.

After the break, captain Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman extended Nigeria’s advantage, putting the West Africans firmly in control. However, Tunisia mounted a dramatic late comeback through goals from defenders Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi, setting up a tense finish. Nigeria held on to claim all three points, guaranteeing qualification to the knockout stages and ensuring they will top Group C regardless of their final group fixture.

In another Group C clash, reigning champions Senegal were forced to settle for a 1–1 draw against DR Congo, with teenage substitute Ibrahim Mbaye playing a decisive role. Congo took the lead in the 61st minute when Cedric Bakambu reacted quickest to a rebound.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw responded by introducing 17-year-old Mbaye, whose direct running immediately unsettled the Congolese defence. Mbaye’s effort was saved by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, but Sadio Mané was on hand to convert the rebound in the 69th minute and restore parity.

Elsewhere, Benin recorded a historic milestone by claiming their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations victory, defeating Botswana 1–0 in a Group D encounter played in Rabat. Defender Yohan Roche scored the decisive goal in the 28th minute after a neat one-two with captain Steve Mounié, his effort deflecting off a defender and into the net.

In a match affected by heavy rain, Uganda and Tanzania played out a 1–1 draw in another Group C fixture, a result that did little to revive either side’s campaign following opening-day defeats. Tanzania went ahead early in the second half through a Simon Msuva penalty, before Uganda equalised late when substitute Uche Ikpeazu headed home.

Uganda had a golden opportunity to snatch victory in stoppage time, but Allan Okello blazed a penalty over the bar as rain drenched the pitch and spectators scrambled for shelter.

At the end of the group stage, the top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed sides across the six pools, will progress to the Round of 16.

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