Lookman Leads the Charge as Super Eagles Soar into AFCON Knockout Stage

A decisive man-of-the-match performance from Ademola Lookman guided Nigeria to a dramatic 3-2 victory over Tunisia on Saturday, securing the Super Eagles’ place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations round of 16.

The 2024 African Player of the Year was instrumental in the win, creating two goals and scoring another, as Nigeria survived a late Tunisian fightback after establishing a commanding 3-0 lead.

“We are pleased with the performance today, three points on board, that is most important. We take the positives and carry on,” Lookman said following the thrilling Group C encounter in Fez.

Lookman specifically praised his on-field chemistry with striker Victor Osimhen, highlighting a partnership that proved too much for Tunisia to handle.

“Victor is a good striker and we have a good relationship and make the most of that.Anywhere I can help the team I do,” he explained. “I now play closer to goal, which gives me more chance to hurt the opponent and I am happy with that.”

The combination bore fruit just before halftime, when Lookman’s pinpoint cross from the left was headed home by Osimhen. Four minutes after the break, Lookman’s corner found captain Wilfred Ndidi to double the lead. Lookman then completed his own standout contribution in the 66th minute, firing home a left-footed finish from an Osimhen cut-back.

Nigeria’s composure was tested when Tunisia staged a late rally with goals from Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi, but the Super Eagles held on for a vital victory.

The win continues Lookman’s remarkable AFCON form, with the forward now registering eight goal contributions (five goals, three assists) in his last nine tournament matches—the best record of any player across the last two editions.

With six points, Nigeria sits atop Group C and will face Uganda in their final group match on Tuesday. Tunisia, with three points, will travel to Rabat to face Tanzania.