AFCON: Tunisia ease past Uganda for winning start

Tunisia were in control against Uganda in Tuesday’s late match as they produced a dominant 3-1 victory in Group C action from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Ellyes Skhiri’s powerful 10th minute header led to an own goal before Elias Achouri produced a brilliant finish from Ali Abdi’s cross before halftime for the Eagles of Carthage. A disorganized Ugandan attack caused little trouble against the North Africans, who added one more goal with Achouri’s second after halftime.

Tunisia quickly asserted themselves in the opening minutes and made their breakthrough from a set piece. A corner kick service from Hannibal Mejbri found Skhiri at the far post, who hit a firm header off the post before the ball ricocheted off diving Cranes goalkeeper Jamal Salim and back into the goal.

The East African underdogs struggled to navigate past the opposition defense, with Rogers Mato the main goal threat while fellow winger Jude Ssemugabi and striker Steven Mukwala were largely ineffective.

Close to halftime, the Eagles of Carthage produced a splendid goal that was created by the work of tireless left back Ali Abdi. The OGC Nice player created space on the flank and his cross found Achouri, who calmly guided the ball into the top corner for a classy finish.

It only got worse for the Cranes after halftime despite the halftime introductions of attackers Denis Omedi and Travis Mutyaba. Achouri arrived to finish from a rebound in the 64th minute after a blocked shot led to a scramble in front of the goal. The Cranes did manage to scrap a late consolation goal through Omedi, who finished from close range after the ball fell kindly for him.

The North Africans will next clash with Nigeria for top spot in Group C on Saturday while Uganda face off with East African rivals Tanzania in a must-win clash.