RABAT, Morocco – The first round of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has concluded, leaving a trail of high-octane drama across the Kingdom of Morocco. As the winter rain slicked the pitches from Tangier to Agadir, the continent’s elite found themselves tested by a new generation of resilient challengers.
While the "Atlas Lions" of Morocco opened the festivities with a roar, the story of the opening week was defined by last-minute heroics, clinical masterclasses, and a clear message: in 2025, there are no easy points.
Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles made a resounding statement in Group C, silencing any doubts about their attacking intent. Facing a disciplined Uganda side in Rabat, the Tunisians showcased tactical maturity to secure a vital 3-1 win.
Meanwhile, in Group E, Algeria lived up to their billing as tournament heavyweights. Riyad Mahrez rolled back the years with a brace, leading the Desert Foxes to a commanding 3-0 victory over Sudan. With a perfect blend of veteran experience and the youthful energy of debutant Ibrahim Maza, Algeria looks like a team possessed.
The hosts and the defending champions both passed their opening tests with flying colors, though through very different styles of play.
Group C lived up to its reputation as the most competitive bracket. While Tunisia and Nigeria both secured maximum points, their opponents (Uganda and Tanzania) proved they will not be pushovers. The upcoming clash between the Super Eagles and the Carthage Eagles is already being billed as a "Final before the Final."
The theme of Matchday 1 was undoubtedly "persistence."
The first round suggests a narrowing gap between the traditional powers and the "minnows." The physical conditioning of the smaller nations has improved, but the individual brilliance of stars like Jackson, Mahrez, and Díaz remains the deciding factor.
| Group | Matchup | Score | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Morocco vs. Comoros | 2–0 | Hosts survive a nervy first half. |
| A | Mali vs. Zambia | 1–1 | Patson Daka’s 92nd-minute header earns a draw. |
| B | Egypt vs. Zimbabwe | 2–1 | Salah’s late scuffed volley saves the Pharaohs. |
| B | South Africa vs. Angola | 1–1 | A tactical stalemate in Marrakech. |
| C | Tunisia vs. Uganda | 3–1 | Carthage Eagles fly high in Rabat. |
| C | Nigeria vs. Tanzania | 2–1 | Lookman’s strike seals it for the Super Eagles. |
| D | Senegal vs. Botswana | 3–0 | Nicolas Jackson is the man to watch. |
| D | DR Congo vs. Benin | 1–0 | Theo Bongonda’s early volley decides it. |
| E | Algeria vs. Sudan | 3–0 | Mahrez masterclass in clinical finishing. |
| E | B. Faso vs. Eq. Guinea | 2–1 | The Stallions edge a physical encounter. |
| F | Ivory Coast vs. Mozambique | 1–0 | Amad Diallo’s spark proves the difference. |
| F | Cameroon vs. Gabon | 1–0 | Indomitable Lions grind out a tough win. |
Venue: Complexe Sportif de Fès, Fez
Date: Saturday, December 27, 2025
Kick-off: 21:00 Local Time (CET)
The Group C spotlight intensifies this Saturday as the two heavyweights of the "Group of Death" meet in Fez. After both sides secured victories in their opening fixtures, this encounter isn't just about three points—it’s about psychological dominance and securing an early path to the knockout rounds.
This fixture is a repeat of the 2022 AFCON Round of 16, where a COVID-depleted Tunisia stunned a high-flying Nigeria 1-0. The Super Eagles have neither forgotten nor forgiven that exit, and they arrive in Morocco with a roster designed for revenge.
Nigeria entered the tournament as one of the favorites, fresh off their 2-1 win against Tanzania. However, despite the victory, critics pointed to a "sleepy" first half-hour. Coach Éric Chelle will be demanding a faster start against a Tunisian side that punished Uganda's every mistake.
Tunisia, meanwhile, are riding a wave of confidence. Their 3-1 dismantling of Uganda was arguably the most polished performance of any North African team in Round 1. Under Sami Trabelsi, the Carthage Eagles look more expansive and dangerous than the defensive-minded units of years past.
Nigeria’s midfield trio will have their hands full with Tunisia’s Elias Achouri. After his brace against Uganda, Achouri is the man of the hour. Nigeria’s holding midfielders must disrupt the supply line to him, or risk being picked apart by Tunisia's quick transitional play.
Ademola Lookman has become Nigeria’s most consistent big-game player. With his ability to drift inward from the left, he will test the discipline of the Tunisian full-backs. Tunisia's defense remained solid in their opener, but they haven't faced an attack with the raw pace and directness of Nigeria yet.
The historical record between these two is remarkably even, making this one of the hardest games to call:
This has "Tactical Chess Match" written all over it. Nigeria has the superior individual firepower, but Tunisia possesses the superior collective organization. A 1-1 draw wouldn't surprise anyone, but if Lookman or Osimhen find space early, the Super Eagles could soar.