Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika has expressed his delight and sent a heartfelt message to the team's technical crew and his colleagues following a standout individual performance for Nigeria at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.
Onyedika's Brace Secures Group C Top Spot
The pivotal moment came on Tuesday evening, December 30, 2025, in Morocco. Nigeria clinched a 3-1 victory over the Cranes of Uganda in their final Group C match of the 2025 AFCON tournament. This crucial win ensured the Super Eagles finished at the summit of their group.
Raphael Onyedika, the 24-year-old Club Brugge star, was the hero of the hour. Making his first start in the competition after replacing the unavailable captain Wilfred Ndidi, Onyedika seized the opportunity with both hands. He scored a quick brace within five minutes in the second half, effectively putting the game beyond Uganda's reach.
The scoring was opened earlier by Trabzonspor forward Paul Onuachu in the 28th minute, who finished a fine assist from Lazio's Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. However, the second half belonged to Onyedika. His first goal came in the 67th minute, followed by his second just five minutes later in the 72nd minute. Both goals were set up by incisive play from winger Samuel Chukwueze.
Understanding with Chukwueze and Coach Chelle's Philosophy
In a post-match reaction, Onyedika highlighted the growing understanding between him and teammate Samuel Chukwueze as a key factor in his performance. He explained that their synergy on the pitch is no accident.
"I know Samuel Chukwueze very well," Onyedika stated. "I know whenever he dribbles, he looks for the first post and cuts back, so I always make sure that I am in that position. These are moments I’ve been working towards all my life."
The midfielder also spoke about the high standards set by head coach Eric Chelle. He described the coach as a tough taskmaster who demands excellence, a philosophy that translated directly into the match result against Uganda.
"Coach Eric Chelle is a tough person; he expects a lot from the players and pushes everyone," Onyedika revealed. "The result is what we worked on in training for. It is about a matter of seconds; you have to decide, and sometimes when you decide if it doesn't click you just have to be ready."
A Message of Patience and Readiness
Reflecting on his journey to this pivotal match, Onyedika sent a message that resonates with every aspiring athlete. He emphasized the importance of patience, focus, and relentless preparation while waiting for one's chance to shine.
"It feels very happy and I can’t really explain how I feel at this moment," he said. "It's just like every other player; when you are not playing you have to look, keep focused, keep working and wait for your own opportunity. It is about waiting for the opportunity and being ready for whatever comes."
His exceptional display, which included the two decisive goals, rightly earned him the Man of the Match award. This performance has not only cemented his place in the team's discussions but has also boosted Nigeria's confidence as they advance to the knockout stages of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as Group C winners.
