AFCON 2025: Tunisia, DRC, Nigeria, and Senegal Start of With Wins
Several heavyweights made strong opening statements at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, with Tunisia, Nigeria, Senegal and DR Congo all claiming vital opening-day victories.
Tunisia cruise past Uganda
Tunisia laid down an early marker in Group C with a controlled 3–1 win over Uganda in Rabat.
The Carthage Eagles dominated from the outset, striking early through Elyes Skhiri before Elias Achouri took centre stage, scoring twice to put the result beyond doubt.
Uganda struggled to match Tunisia’s tempo and physicality for most of the contest, only grabbing a late consolation through Denis Omedi in stoppage time. Tunisia’s organisation, ball control and attacking efficiency underlined their ambition to go deep in the tournament.
Nigeria survive Tanzania scare
Nigeria opened their campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Tanzania, but not without moments of concern.
Semi Ajayi’s first-half header rewarded the Super Eagles’ early dominance, but Tanzania showed resilience and stunned Nigeria early in the second half when Charles M’Mbowa equalised.
The response was immediate. Ademola Lookman struck a superb winner barely a minute later, restoring Nigeria’s lead and calming nerves. While Nigeria managed the closing stages well, the performance highlighted areas still needing refinement.
Senegal flex muscles against Botswana
Defending champions Senegal delivered one of the most convincing displays of the round, brushing aside Botswana 3–0 in Tangier.
After sustained pressure, Nicolas Jackson broke the deadlock before halftime and added a second shortly after the restart, showcasing composure and movement.
Substitute Cherif Ndiaye added a late third to cap a dominant outing. Despite a standout performance from Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko, Senegal’s depth, pace and structure proved overwhelming.
DR Congo edge Benin in tight affair
DR Congo secured maximum points with a 1–0 win over Benin, courtesy of an early Théo Bongonda strike in Rabat.
The Leopards controlled much of the match and created the better chances but were unable to extend their lead.
Benin remained competitive and pushed late on, yet DR Congo’s defensive discipline ensured a clean sheet and a valuable opening victory.
Early signals sent
- Tunisia and Senegal looked polished and authoritative
- Nigeria showed attacking quality but room for improvement
- DR Congo demonstrated maturity and efficiency
As AFCON 2025 gathers momentum, early results are already reinforcing one familiar truth: reputation counts for little, and every match demands maximum focus.
