The Super Eagles Secure Afcon Knockout Place In Spite of Fierce Carthage Eagles Fightback

The three-time champions survived a dramatic comeback attempt from their opponents to progress to the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations being held in the host nation.

Jose Peseiro's side seemed to be cruising in their pool clash in the Moroccan city, enjoying a three-goal lead with only 17 minutes remaining thanks to strikes from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman.

However, a Tunisian defender pulled one back with a powerful header from a Hannibal Mejbri set-piece, igniting hopes of a turnaround.

The drama escalated when the North Africans were given a late penalty after a VAR review spotted a handball by Bright Osayi-Samuel. The left-back converted in the dying stages to create a frantic conclusion.

Tunisia came agonizingly close from a last-gasp leveler in stoppage time, with their skipper heading a opportunity just past the post before a substitute sent a half-volley wide of the goal frame.

Securing Top Spot

This result means that Nigeria, winners of the competition on 3 previous occasions, move to six group points and are guaranteed top spot in their pool with one game still to play.

In the next round, they will face a third-placed team from either Group A, B or F.

In the other match, the 2004 champions remain on 3 group points, with the East African teams tied on one point each after registering a one-all draw in the day's other fixture.

The final pool fixtures will see Nigeria remain in Fes to play the Cranes on Tuesday, while the Eagles of Carthage travel back to the capital to face Tanzania.

A Nervy Finish

The Super Eagles, runners-up in the 2023 edition, are the second nation after the Pharaohs to reach the knockout stage, but coach Eric Chelle and fans will certainly be breathing a sigh of relief.

What looked like set to be a straightforward last period transformed into a tense affair.

The prolific striker had a effort ruled out for an infringement before opening the scoring right before half-time, expertly guiding a header into the far post from an Atalanta winger delivery.

The advantage was extended early in the second period when the Leicester City midfielder rose highest to power home a powerful nod from a Lookman corner.

Osimhen then set up Lookman for the third goal, before the defender to steer a powerful header past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to begin the fightback.

The pivotal moment arrived when a looping cross hit the forearm of the full-back, with the official awarding a penalty after consulting the pitchside screen.

Although the defender's successful penalty, the 2004 champions ultimately fell short of pulling off a remarkable recovery.

Tunisia's destiny remains in their own hands; a draw against Tanzania will be sufficient to see them through, and manager Sami Trabelsi will be eager to avoid a recurrence of the past early elimination that led to his departure.