Nigeria 3-2 Tunisia: Chelle insists Super Eagles were better side despite late scare

Nigeria coach Eric Chelle insisted his side fully merited their dramatic 3-2 win over Tunisia in Fez, a result that sealed the Super Eagles’ place in the Round of 16 at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco 2025.

‘I’m happy, once again, with the intensity we showed for 75 minutes. I’m pleased with how we recovered the ball both very high up the pitch and very deep. We were able to move forward quickly, but also to keep possession for long periods of the game.

‘We created a lot of chances and opportunities to score. In the second half, up until the 75th minute, we deserved this victory. We deserved it because we were the better team. After that, Tunisia played with the energy that characterises them.

‘Their first goal came from a set piece, and the second from a moment of play. But once again, we deserved this win, and I think we were the better team in every area of the game. Of course, it would be nice to finish a match without having to suffer so much,’ Chelle said post-match.

The Super Eagles appeared to be cruising after racing into a commanding 3-0 lead, with Ademola Lookman delivering a standout performance of two assists and a goal.

His pinpoint cross picked out Victor Osimhen for the opener just before halftime, before captain Wilfred Ndidi doubled the advantage four minutes into the second half with a header from Lookman’s corner. Lookman then rifled home in the 66th minute after a clever cut-back by Osimhen.

Tunisia refused to fold, however, as Montassar Talbi’s header and Ali Abdi’s penalty set up a tense finale. Ferjani Sassi came close to completing the comeback in stoppage time, but his header drifted wide as Nigeria held firm to claim a second successive win, moving to six points and top of Group C.

Nigeria now face Uganda in their final group match in Fez on Tuesday, while Tunisia, on three points, travel to Rabat to meet Tanzania.