Nigeria have secured a place in the Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 after completing a flawless group-stage campaign in Morocco.
The Super Eagles finished top of Group C with a 100 per cent record, following wins over Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda. A much-changed Nigerian side sealed qualification in style with a 3-1 victory over 10-man Uganda in Fez.
Already guaranteed top spot before kick-off, head coach Eric Chelle rotated his squad, resting several key players who were one yellow card away from suspension. Despite the changes, Nigeria dominated proceedings, with Paul Onuachu opening the scoring before Raphael Onyedika struck twice in quick succession during the second half.
Uganda managed a late consolation goal, but it was not enough to prevent them from finishing bottom of the group and exiting the tournament.
Nigeria’s group-stage dominance means they will face the third-place finishers from Group F in the last 16. That fixture will take place at the Fez Stadium on Monday night, January 5.
The likely opponents are either Cameroon or Mozambique, who face each other in the final Group F match. Mozambique currently sit third after a historic win over Gabon, just one point behind Cameroon, who hold a superior goal difference. Defending champions Ivory Coast top the group and are unlikely to drop into third place.
Should Nigeria progress beyond the round of 16, a potential quarter-final clash with 2019 champions Algeria could await as the Super Eagles continue their pursuit of a fourth AFCON title.
