Nigeria completed a perfect group stage at the Africa Cup of Nations with a comfortable 3-1 win over Uganda, sending the Cranes out of the tournament.
Already assured of top spot in Group C, Nigeria made several changes to their starting team but still controlled the match from the opening minutes. Samuel Chukwueze went close early on after good work from Moses Simon, while Victor Osimhen caused constant problems for the Ugandan defence.
Nigeria finally took the lead when Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s low cross was turned in by Paul Onuachu from close range. Uganda struggled to get going and failed to register a shot on target before half-time.
After the break, Nigeria remained on top and Uganda’s task became even harder when substitute goalkeeper Salim Magoola was sent off for handling outside the box while trying to stop Osimhen. With a third-choice goalkeeper forced on, Nigeria took full advantage.
Chukwueze set up Raphael Onyedika for Nigeria’s second goal, and the same player added a third soon after to put the result beyond doubt. Uganda did manage a late consolation when Rogers Mato chipped the ball over Francis Uzoho, but it was little comfort on a tough night.
The result sees Uganda finish bottom of the group, while Nigeria head into the knockout stage full of confidence after winning all three group matches.
