Star strikers Victor Osimhen and Sadio Mane scored on Saturday as Nigeria qualified for the knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, and Senegal edged closer to joining them.

Osimhen opened the scoring for the Super Eagles just before half-time, and they built a three-goal lead before surviving a late Tunisia rally to win 3-2 in Fes.

Victory ensured three-time champions Nigeria became the second nation after record seven-time winners Egypt to secure a last-16 place.

Mane struck as Senegal came from behind to draw 1-1 with DR Congo in Tangiers, a result that kept both former African champions on course for the second round.

Osimhen was a constant menace to the Tunisians as he scored his second Afcon goal, and first since the opening round of the 2024 tournament.

Much improved after a scrappy opening win over Tanzania, Nigeria lost momentum in the closing stages and Tunisia twice came close to equalising in added time.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi, with his first goal for the national team, and Ademola Lookman were the other Nigerian scorers before Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi netted to set up a tense climax.

Nigeria have six points in Group C, Tunisia three and Tanzania and Uganda one each going into the fina

πŸ“°

Continue Reading on The National UAE

This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.

Read Full Article β†’