AFCON: Raphael Onyedika celebrates brace as Nigeria secure perfect group stage run

Nigeria’s senior men’s national team midfielder Raphael Onyedika has expressed joy after bagging a brace in the Super Eagles’ 3–1 victory over the Cranes of Uganda, in their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group C match in Morocco.

​The victory, which marked a perfect run for Nigeria, witnessed the AFCON debut of the Club Brugge midfielder. He marked his return to the starting line-up since November 2024 by scoring two goals within five minutes.

​Onyedika got his first in the 62nd minute after being found by Samuel Chukwueze. Just five minutes later, he combined with Chukwueze again for Nigeria’s third, slotting the ball home with acres of space just inside the box.

​Speaking during the post-match press conference, the 24-year-old said he was happy with his performance, noting that it is about being ready at all times when called upon.

“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.

It’s about waiting for your opportunity and being ready for whatever comes, because it’s about performing and being ready whenever being called upon”

He also provided insight into head coach Eric Chelle, describing him as a manager with high standards.

“It feels good and also though because he has a standard and demand from the players.

He is an amazing manger and also a though coach”

The brace marked Onyedika’s third goal for his country in 19 appearances. He scored his first international goal against Benin Republic in June 2024 during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Onyedika originally made his debut for Nigeria in a 2022 friendly against Algeria, playing for five minutes.

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