The Super Eagles can book their place in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a win against Tunisia on Saturday.
Nigeria began their tournament with a 2-1 win over Tanzania.
Another three points against the Carthage Eagles will see them progress into the next round.
But, here’s the thing: Tunisia wants the exact same thing.
The North Africans thrashed Uganda 3-0 in their opening fixture and are currently top of the group.
That means Eric Chelle’s men have to step it up against a team that is one of the favourites to win the AFCON.
“I think Nigeria played well enough to defeat Tanzania,” Ope Adebari, a sports analyst, reporter and producer with News Central, tells DAILY POST.
“Alex Iwobi was the most impressive. His impact on the game was felt from the start till the end of the game.
“I think Chukwueze and Sanusi need to step up their individual performances.”
A lot has also been said about Chelle’s tactical set-up and how he deploys his players.
“I think Chelle should just use the right players in the right positions,” Adebari pointed out.
“He seems to always misprofile players.”
The Super Eagles have won three of their last 10 meetings with Tunisia, including memorable victories at the AFCON 2000 and AFCON 2006.
However, Tunisia sent Nigeria packing in the Round of 16 at AFCON 2021, winning 1–0 in Garoua.
That defeat was a timely reminder that they can frustrate and punish even the most talented sides.
Over the last ten meetings between both sides, Tunisia emerged victorious thrice, with the remaining four fixtures ending all square.
Players Nigeria need to be wary of?
“Talbi, Mejbri, Achouri, Mastouri and Skhiri are players that can hurt the Super Eagles,” Adebari added.
