The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to clash with the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia in their second Group C fixture of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) this Saturday at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.
As the two strongest sides in the group, this tie will likely determine the group winner. Given the high quality of talent in both squads, this encounter is widely anticipated as one of the highlights of the group stage.
Ahead of the match, Soccernet.ng highlights five key Super Eagles players who could decide how the game will go on Saturday.
1. Calvin Bassey
Calvin Bassey for Nigeria (Photo credit: Imago)
The Fulham defender is quickly becoming a fan favorite. Following a commanding performance against Tanzania, Bassey is expected to provide a solid foundation against Tunisia.
A ruthless presence in the backline, he rarely commits errors and has the tactical awareness to push forward and support the attack when the opportunity arises.
2. Alex Iwobi
Alex Iwobi for Nigeria with Teboho Mokoena behind(Photo credit: Imago)
Alex Iwobi was a standout performer in the opening game against Tanzania. His forward-thinking play and vision were instrumental in the Super Eagles’ ball progression.
Coach Eric Chelle will once again rely on the Fulham playmaker to dictate the tempo against Tunisia.
While he faces a sterner test in the middle of the park against the Tunisians, Iwobi at his best will be a handful for any opposing midfielder.
3. Samuel Chukwueze
Samuel Chukwueze of Nigeria and Ishola Junior Olaitan of Benin during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifier match between Nigeria and Benin Republic. Photo by Victor Ihechi/Imago
Chukwueze was the architect of Nigeria’s offensive play on Tuesday, consistently taking risks in the final third.
Asides from his attacking flair, the former Villarreal winger also showed impressive defensive discipline.
To overcome a disciplined Tunisian side, Nigeria will need Chukwueze’s dribbling, passing, and high work rate to remain at the heart of their attack.
4. Frank Onyeka
Frank Onyeka of Super Eagles (Photo credit: Imago
There is a strong possibility that Frank Onyeka will join the starting XI on Saturday. Coach Chelle often favors a three-man midfield against technically strong opponents.
Onyeka’s energy and tackling will be vital in neutralizing Tunisia’s transitions. Also, his ability to make late runs into the box provides Nigeria with a goal-scoring threat from deep.
5. Victor Osimhen
Victor Osimhen of Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Amavubi of Rwanda. Photo by Akpan Nsidibe Copyright: imago
As a former African Footballer of the Year, Osimhen remains Nigeria’s most potent weapon. Widely regarded as the best striker on the continent, he serves as the x-factor.
Six Goals Away From History!
Victor Osimhen is six goals away from equalling Rashidi Yekini’s all-time Super Eagles scoring record (37 goals).
Nigeria have played only one game so far at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, with two more group matches to go, and hopefully more… pic.twitter.com/Wi53DuPDqD
— Dr. Victor Ademola (@AdemolaVictorTv) December 25, 2025
If his teammates can provide the necessary service, Osimhen has the clinical edge to punish the Carthage Eagles’ defense.