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The three-time champions weathered a stunning comeback attempt from Tunisia to progress to the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations taking place in the host nation.

The Super Eagles appeared to be in complete control in their Group C clash in the Moroccan city, enjoying a 3-0 cushion with just a quarter of an hour remaining courtesy of goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman.

Yet, Montassar Talbi reduced the deficit with a powerful header from a Hannibal Mejbri set-piece, igniting hopes of a turnaround.

The tension escalated when the North Africans were given a spot-kick after a video assistant referee review spotted a handball by Bright Osayi-Samuel. The left-back calmly slotted home in the 87th minute to set up a frantic conclusion.

The Carthage Eagles were inches away from a stunning equalizer in added time, with captain Ferjani Sassi heading a chance just past the post before a substitute guided a half-volley past the goal frame.

Securing First Place

This result means that Nigeria, champions of the tournament on three past instances, advance to 6 points and are guaranteed first place in Group C with a match still to play.

For the round of 16, they will face a third-placed team from one of Group A, B or F.

Meanwhile, the 2004 champions remain on three points, with the East African teams locked on a single point after playing out a one-all draw in the day's other fixture.

The concluding group matches will see Nigeria stay in Fes to take on the Cranes on the next matchday, while Tunisia return to the capital to confront Tanzania.

A Nervy Finish

Nigeria, runners-up in the 2023 edition, are the second team after Egypt to qualify for the next phase, but their manager and fans will certainly be feeling relieved.

What seemed set to be a straightforward last period transformed into a nerve-wracking affair.

Victor Osimhen had a effort ruled out for offside before opening the scoring right before half-time, expertly guiding a header into the bottom corner from an Ademola Lookman cross.

The lead was doubled early in the second period when Wilfred Ndidi rose highest to power home a header from a set-piece kick.

The number 9 then turned provider Lookman for the seemingly decisive goal, before the defender to direct a powerful header past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to initiate the comeback.

The key moment arrived when a looping cross hit the forearm of the full-back, with referee Boubou Traore awarding a penalty after consulting the pitchside screen.

Although the defender's successful penalty, Tunisia in the end fell short of pulling off a remarkable comeback.

Their fate is still in their own hands; a point against Tunisia will be sufficient to secure progression, and their coach will be eager to prevent a recurrence of the past early elimination that led to his departure.