By our man in Fez
SUPER EAGLES fans were dancing in the Moroccan moonlight tonight as Nigeria soared into the AFCON knockouts with a perfect record.
The three-time champs made light work of Uganda with a clinical 3-1 victory that left the Cranes grounded and gasping for air.
While the action on the pitch was hot, it was the stunning Complexe Sportif de Fès that provided the ultimate backdrop for this Group C masterclass.
The historic Fez venue, known for its electric atmosphere, was transformed into a sea of green and white as the Nigerian faithful turned the Moroccan stronghold into a home away from home.
Nigeria didn’t wait long to start the party. Paul Onuachu broke the deadlock after 28 minutes, sliding home to reward the Eagles’ early dominance.
Uganda’s hopes of a comeback went up in smoke just after the break when keeper Salim Magoola saw red for a moment of madness.
With the Cranes down to ten men, Raphael Onyedika took charge, bagging a quick-fire double in the 62nd and 67th minutes to put the result beyond doubt.
The Ugandans managed a late consolation through Mato, but it was too little, too late.
The Fez Stadium erupted at the final whistle as Nigeria confirmed their status as the team to beat.
They finish the group stage with three wins from three, leaving the rest of the continent looking nervously over their shoulders at the Green Machine.
