Onyedika double sends Nigeria top as Uganda bow out of AFCON after losing 1-3

Raphael Onyedika scored twice while Paul Onuachu netted his first international goal in four years as Nigeria defeated 10-man Uganda 3–1 to secure a third straight win in Group C of the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, sending the East Africans crashing out of the tournament.

Already assured of top spot, Nigeria still delivered a dominant display to finish the group with a perfect nine points, underlining their credentials as title contenders.

Onyedika opened the scoring before Onuachu ended his long international goal drought to put the Super Eagles firmly in control.

In a match reported by Al Jazeera, Uganda’s problems deepened when Salim Magoola was sent off, forcing the Cranes to battle with 10 men for much of the contest.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Uganda managed a consolation goal through Rogers Mato, but it proved little more than a brief response on a difficult night that also saw the team forced to use three different goalkeepers due to injury and suspension.

Nigeria wrapped up the victory with Onyedika’s second goal, capping a composed performance despite several regular starters being rested.

Uganda finished bottom of Group C and were eliminated, marking another disappointing chapter in a chaotic tournament for coach Paul Put’s side.

Nigeria topped the group, followed by Tunisia and Tanzania, who progressed to the round of 16 as one of the four best third-placed teams.

Teams confirmed for the round of 16: Algeria, Nigeria, Egypt, South Africa, Morocco, Mali, Tunisia and Tanzania.

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