The Africa Cup of Nations once again delivered a night of drama, surprises and unforgettable moments, with Nigeria, Senegal and DR Congo all booking their places in the knockout rounds but not without controversy, chaos and compelling storylines.
The standout image of the night came from Fes, where Uganda’s campaign unravelled in extraordinary fashion as they were forced to use three different goalkeepers in a 3–1 defeat against Nigeria, a rare and chaotic sight even by AFCON’s unpredictable standards.
Nigeria, already assured of qualification, showed their depth and quality as they topped Group C with a perfect nine points. Raphael Onyedika struck twice while Paul Onuachu finally ended his international goal drought, scoring his first goal in four years for the Super Eagles. Despite resting several regulars, Nigeria were in complete control.
Uganda’s night, however, told a very different story. First-choice goalkeeper Denis Onyango was forced off injured, and matters worsened when substitute Salim Magoola was sent off, forcing third-choice keeper Nafian Alionzi into action. The unusual sight of three goalkeepers being used in a single match summed up Uganda’s difficult AFCON campaign. Rogers Mato did pull one back, but it was merely a consolation on a night dominated by Nigeria.
In the same group, Tanzania secured one of the tournament’s most important results, holding Tunisia to a 1–1 draw to reach the last 16 as one of the best third-placed teams. Feisal Salum’s powerful second-half strike cancelled out Ismaël Gharbi’s opener and sent Tanzania through on goal difference, eliminating Angola in the process.
Meanwhile, Group D also produced high drama. Senegal defeated Benin 3–0 despite being reduced to ten men after captain Kalidou Koulibaly was sent off. Abdoulaye Seck opened the scoring before Habib Diallo and substitute Chérif Ndiaye sealed the win. Senegal finished top of the group, though they will be without their skipper in the next round.
The Democratic Republic of Congo also advanced after a comfortable 3–0 win over Botswana. Gaël Kakuta starred with two goals and an assist, while Nathanaël Mbuku also found the net. Despite finishing level on points with Senegal, DR Congo had to settle for second place due to goal difference.
As the group stage draws to a close, the tournament continues to underline why AFCON remains one of world football’s most unpredictable competitions. From goalkeeping chaos and dramatic red cards to underdogs refusing to bow out quietly.
With knockout football now looming, the stakes rise even higher, and if the group stage is anything to go by, the drama is far from over.
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