Nigeria midfielder Raphael Onyedika savoured a dream night at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, scoring twice to inspire a 3-1 victory over Uganda and secure a flawless group stage campaign for the Super Eagles.
Starting an AFCON match for the first time in his career, Onyedika described his performance as the reward for years of dedication and patience. Both of his second-half goals came within five minutes, turning the match decisively in Nigeria’s favour.
“I feel very happy. I cannot explain how I feel, but this is a moment I have been working towards all my life, and I’m happy that it finally came true,” Onyedika said after the final whistle.
The Club Brugge midfielder opened the scoring in the 62nd minute following a precise pass from Samuel Chukwueze. Onyedika made a well-timed run into the box and calmly finished through the goalkeeper’s legs. Five minutes later, the same partnership produced Nigeria’s third goal, as Onyedika, left unmarked, guided the ball home to effectively seal the match and assert the Super Eagles’ dominance in the group.
Beyond the goals, Onyedika expressed a sense of personal fulfilment. The 24-year-old stressed the importance of discipline, patience, and readiness: “It’s about waiting for your opportunity and being ready for whatever comes, because it’s about performing and being ready.”
Onyedika’s international career has been one of steady progress. He made his senior debut in 2022 in a friendly against Algeria and scored his first goal for Nigeria two years later against Benin Republic during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. To date, he has made 19 appearances for the Super Eagles.
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