The three-time champions dominated the encounter at the Fez Stadium in Morocco on Tuesday, ensuring they finish top of Group C with a maximum nine points.
The result marks a confident start to the knockout stages for the Super Eagles, while defeat for Uganda confirms their exit from the tournament at the bottom of the group.
Onyedika at the double
Nigeria’s pressure told in the 28th minute when Paul Onuachu broke the deadlock, poking home a low cross from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. It was a deserved lead for a side that overwhelmed the Ugandan defence with pace and fluid movement throughout the first half.
The Super Eagles intensified their attack after the interval, with Raphael Onyedika becoming the star of the second half.
- 62nd minute: Onyedika doubled the lead, showing great composure to slot the ball into the bottom corner following a precise pass from Samuel Chukwueze.
- 67th minute: Just five minutes later, Onyedika struck again from 15 yards, finishing off a swift team move to put the game effectively out of reach.
Consolation for the Cranes
Uganda, who were reduced to 10 men during the second half, managed to find a consolation goal in the 75th minute. Substitute Allan Okello set up Rogers Mato, who produced a clever chip over Nigeria’s goalkeeper Francis Uzoho.
Despite the late surge, a comeback never looked likely as Nigeria’s experienced backline closed out the game.
Momentum building
The Super Eagles head into the round of 16 as one of the tournament’s most in-form teams. Having won all three group matches, coach Jose Peseiro’s side has established itself as a firm favourite to lift the trophy in Morocco.
Uganda, meanwhile, will reflect on a difficult campaign where they struggled to convert possession into goals, ending their journey without a point in a tough Group C.
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