The Super Eagles have already secured their place in the Round of 16 at AFCON 2025, but head coach Eric Chelle faces a major disciplinary headache ahead of today’s final group game against Uganda.
Four pivotal starters, including talisman Victor Osimhen and in-form winger Ademola Lookman, are currently “walking a tightrope,” sitting on one yellow card each. Under CAF rules, a second yellow card in today’s match would trigger an automatic one-match suspension, forcing them to miss Nigeria’s crucial first knockout fixture.
The following four players are at risk of missing the Round of 16 if booked today, Tuesday, 30 December 2025: –
Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray) who received a caution during the high-octane 3-2 victory over Tunisia for his exuberant goal celebration; Ademola Lookman (Atalanta), the tournament’s joint-top scorer for Nigeria is also on a warning, making him a prime candidate for rest today; Semi Ajayi (Hull City), the defensive pillar picked up what was described as a “needless” yellow card for a tactical foul in the previous round, and Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United), the first-choice goalkeeper who was booked for “delay tactics” late in the Tunisia game.
With qualification already in the bag after wins over Tanzania (2-1) and Tunisia (3-2), coach Chelle is expected to make sweeping changes for the 4:00 PM (WAT) kickoff at the Fez Stadium to protect his “YCC” (Yellow Card Crew).
With attack touted as Paul Onuachu and Akor Adams primed to lead the line in place of Osimhen and Lookman; defense as Zaidu Sanusi, expected to return to the starting XI to allow for a reshuffle that could see Ajayi rested and goalkeeping with strong calls for Francis Uzoho to start between the sticks to ensure Nwabali is available for the knockout phase.
While Nigeria aims for a “perfect” group stage (9 points), sports analysts argue that the risk of losing Osimhen or Lookman, who have accounted for four of Nigeria’s five goals, far outweighs the pride of a three-win streak.
“In tournament football, you play the long game. Losing your spine to a silly yellow card in a dead-rubber against Uganda would be a managerial disaster.” – TheLink Sports Analysis.
