The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face Tunisia on Saturday, December 27, in their second Group C match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Both sides started their campaigns strongly. Nigeria edged past Tanzania 2-1 to sit second in the group, while Tunisia defeated Uganda 3-1 to top the table. With momentum on both sides, this clash promises to be a thrilling showdown.
Nigeria vs Tunisia: A classic AFCON rivalry
Nigeria and Tunisia have a long history at the Africa Cup of Nations, having met six times in previous tournaments. Their encounters have often been dramatic, featuring dominant wins, penalty shootouts, and memorable moments for both sides.
- 1978: Nigeria awarded a 2-0 win after Tunisia walked off in protest, leading to a two-year suspension for Tunisia.
- 2000: Nigeria won 4-2 in the group stage, powered by Austin Okocha and Victor Ikpeba.
- 2004: Tunisia defeated Nigeria on penalties in the semi-finals, eventually claiming their first AFCON title.
- 2006: Nigeria eliminated Tunisia in a tense quarter-final shootout, with Vincent Enyeama starring in goal.
- 2019: Nigeria won 1-0 in the third-place match, with Odion Ighalo scoring early.
- 2021: Tunisia knocked out Nigeria 1-0 in the round of 16.
Saturday’s encounter will mark the seventh AFCON meeting between these two African giants.
Venue: Complexe Sportif de Fès
Kick-off: 9:00 PM
Recent form: Nigeria vs Tunisia
Nigeria enters this fixture with a positive start at AFCON 2025. The Super Eagles have won four of their last six matches across all competitions, losing just twice.
Tunisia, on the other hand, has been consistent with three wins, two draws, and one loss in their last six outings. Both teams will aim to maintain their unbeaten start in the group stage.
Key players to watch
Nigeria:
- Alex Iwobi: Already provided two assists and created six chances in the opening match, maintaining 91% pass accuracy.
- Victor Osimhen: A constant threat in the box, his movement can open space for teammates even if he hasn’t scored yet.
Tunisia:
- Mohamed Elias Achouri: Scored twice despite low shot accuracy, showing opportunism and positioning.
- Hazem Mastouri: Leads the attack and will be central to Tunisia’s goal threat.
Nigeria vs Tunisia: Team news and lineups
Nigeria: The Super Eagles have no injury concerns and are expected to stick with Eric Chelle’s preferred 4-4-2 diamond.
Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen will lead the attack, with Iwobi orchestrating from midfield alongside Wilfred Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze.
Probable lineup:
Nwabali; Sanusi, Bassey, Ajayi, Osayi-Samuel; Ndidi, Iwobi, Chukwueze, Lookman; Osimhen, Adams
Tunisia: Coach Sami Trabelsi also reports no injuries and will likely deploy his usual 4-3-3 formation. Achouri and Mastouri are expected to spearhead the attack.
Probable lineup:
Dahmen; Valery, Bronn, Talbi, Abdi; Sassi, Skhiri, Mejbri; Achouri, Mastouri, Saad
Prediction: Tight AFCON battle expected
Nigeria and Tunisia are evenly matched, and recent meetings suggest a tight contest. With both sides in strong form and packed with talent, a 1-1 draw seems a realistic outcome, though either team could snatch a late win.
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