Raphael Onyedika could not hide his joy after a stunning brace powered Nigeria to a 3–1 win over Uganda and sealed top spot in Group C at AFCON 2025.
Coming into the tournament under pressure to prove himself, the midfielder delivered his best performance yet in Nigerian colours, striking twice in five second-half minutes as the Super Eagles took full control of the contest in Fès.
Named TotalEnergies Man of the Match, Onyedika admitted the emotions were overwhelming.
“Thank you everyone. I feel very happy and I can’t really explain how I feel in this moment. These are moments I’ve been working towards all my life, and I’m happy that things are starting to come under control,” he said after the game. He spoke about the challenge of staying ready when not always in the starting XI, stressing the importance of focus, hard work and taking chances when the coach calls.
Onyedika also highlighted the demanding environment within the Nigerian camp, praising coach Eric Chelle’s high standards in training and matches. For the midfielder, this performance was not just about personal glory, but a sign that his perseverance is paying off as Nigeria push for the title.
