In the thrilling Nigeria vs Tunisia match, Osimhen shone as Nigeria secured a 3-2 victory and advanced in the tournament.
Victor Osimhen starred in Nigeria’s match. They became the second qualifier for the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage after Egypt. This was in the Nigeria vs Tunisia game. They survived a late Tunisia onslaught to win 3-2 in Fes on Saturday.
The Nigeria Super Eagles were cruising to victory. They were leading with 3-0 through the goals from Osimhen, captain Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman.
In the Nigeria vs Tunisia game, Tunisia refused to surrender in the top-of-the-table Group C clash. Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi scored. This set up a tense finish.
Tunisia gained two chances that could have leveled during the seven minutes of added time. Still, a header from captain Ferjani Sassi was just off target. Likewise, a shot by substitute Ismael Gharbi was also slightly off.
Nigeria has six points. Tunisia has three. Tanzania and Uganda have one each. The final round of group matches is set for Tuesday.
Nigeria performed well below par when they edged Tanzania in the opening round. But they were a transformed team against Tunisia. They dominated the first 30 minutes in the northern city.
Osimhen was outstanding, particularly in aerial duels, while Tunisia were forced to constantly defend against the three-time champions.
The Galatasaray striker, wearing his trademark mask, headed just over after nine minutes. He came close again soon after as he rose to meet a corner kick.
Osimhen had the ball in the net after 17 minutes of the Nigeria vs Tunisia, but was rightly ruled offside. Big-screen replays showed the 2023 African player of the year timing his run too early.
Tunisia midfielder Hannibal Mejbri was lucky to escape a yellow card for dissent. He reacted angrily when a Nigerian took a foul throw. He, nevertheless, flung the ball to the ground with his hand.
Osimhen was wide with another headed goal try. He then left the pitch temporarily, so the medical staff could apply a spray to his leg.
Tunisia finally broke out of a defensive shell in 32 minutes and forced a corner.
Several Tunisian raids reaped no reward, and after 44 minutes, the goalless deadlock was broken with Osimhen, predictably, the scorer.
The goal involved two former African players of the year. The 2024 winner Lookman crossed the ball. Osimhen rose between Abdi and Talbi to head powerfully into the net.
Just five minutes into the second half, Nigeria stretched its lead to two goals. They once again exposed the aerial weaknesses of the Tunisian defense.
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