Super Eagles Soar: Lookman Inspires $25,000 Bonus Win Over Tunisia at AFCON 2025

In a thrilling display of attacking prowess at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the Super Eagles of Nigeria cemented their place in the Round of 16 with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia. The match, played on December 27th at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, was not just a statement of intent from Eric Chelle’s side but also a lucrative one, as the team hit a significant goal bonus milestone.

The victory, powered by a Man-of-the-Match performance from Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, has sent waves of optimism through the Nigerian fanbase and solidified the Super Eagles’ status as one of the tournament’s highest-scoring teams.

Lookman Masterclass Drives Super Eagles to Victory

While the team performance was collective, all eyes were on Ademola Lookman, who delivered a truly world-class display. The attacker was directly involved in all three of Nigeria’s goals, scoring one and providing two crucial assists. His ability to influence the game from wide areas, combined with his clinical finishing and creative vision, proved to be the difference-maker in a tightly contested affair.

His performance earned him the well-deserved Man of the Match award and further solidified his reputation as a player who rises to the occasion on the big stage. Having already been the hero in the opening match against Tanzania, Lookman is rapidly becoming the talisman for the Super Eagles at this tournament.

Speaking after the game, a humble but confident Lookman reflected on the team’s performance and sent a clear message to the fans back home.

“We’re in the right direction. I think today we’re outstanding from the first half into the second half, and then, you know, they had a spell in which they scored two goals. But apart from that, we were very good today,” he stated.

When asked for a message to the supporters, he added, “Keep supporting us. We really need you. So keep on being behind us. Keep on driving us and yeah, keep supporting us. Thank you.”

More Than Just a Win: Super Eagles Cash In on Goal Bonuses

Beyond the three points and qualification, the victory against Tunisia had a tangible financial reward for the players. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had promised a $5,000 bonus for every goal scored by the team during the AFCON 2025 tournament.

With the five goals scored across their two group games so far, the Super Eagles have officially earned a $25,000 goal bonus. This incentive has clearly lit a fire under the attackers, who are currently the highest-scoring team in the competition. With one final group game remaining against Uganda, the team has a chance to further increase their earnings before the knockout rounds begin.

A Voice from the Stands: Fan Analysis for the NFF

The victory, while celebrated, has also sparked detailed analysis from passionate followers of Nigerian football. One fan, Oluwadamilare Michael Emmanuel, shared a comprehensive breakdown on Facebook that echoes the sentiments of many. His analysis provides a valuable scouting perspective on areas for improvement:

“So far so good I’m impressed with the entire team and coaching crew, I believe with sustained hard work, adequate preparations, and help of God, the Super Eagles will surely make Nigerians smile again, and we’ll forgive them for the World Cup miss, which was largely caused by poor administrative management from the NFF.”

He went on to provide specific tactical pointers for the coaching staff:

• Defensive Solidity: “They should work more on the 2 & 3 positions…”
• Clinical Finishing: “…train tactically more on utilizing chances even if it is half chance…”
• Set-Piece Prowess: “…and work more on set pieces, such as free kicks, and corner kicks, in some deciding matches these are the things that win matches.”

This kind of constructive feedback highlights the high expectations from the fanbase and underscores the fine margins between success and failure at the international level.

Road to the Knockouts: What’s Next for Nigeria?

The win over Tunisia officially booked Nigeria’s place in the Round of 16, rendering their final group game against Uganda a formality. Coach Eric Chelle now has the opportunity to rotate his squad, giving valuable game time to fringe players and protecting key starters from potential injury or suspension.

As the Super Eagles prepare for the knockout phase, the mood is optimistic. The team is scoring goals, showing character to come back in games, and boasts players in red-hot form. If they can address the minor tactical concerns raised by fans and continue their attacking momentum, they have every chance of going deep into the tournament and making Nigerians smile once again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What was the final score of the Nigeria vs Tunisia AFCON 2025 match?
The Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia with a final score of 3-2.

Q2: Who was the Man of the Match in the Nigeria vs Tunisia game?
Ademola Lookman was named Man of the Match after scoring one goal and providing two assists.

Q3: How much is the Super Eagles’ goal bonus at AFCON 2025?
The NFF promised a $5,000 bonus for each goal scored. After five goals, the team has earned a total of $25,000.

Q4: Has Nigeria qualified for the next round at AFCON 2025?
Yes, the victory over Tunisia secured Nigeria’s place in the Round of 16 of the AFCON 2025 tournament.