Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel has addressed the last-minute penalty that allowed Tunisia to score their second goal in the 3-2 game in Fez.
In the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations match, Nigeria defeated Tunisia 3-2.
Towards the end of the second half, Tunisia was awarded a penalty after the referee ruled that Osayi-Samuel had handled the ball inside the penalty area.
The game shifted dramatically in the final minutes, as Tunisia scored two late goals, creating intense excitement and making the outcome very tight.
When asked about the team’s mindset at that moment, Osayi-Samuel said, “For me personally, it was painful because I didn’t think it was a penalty. I’ve looked back as well, and I don’t think there was much I could do to stop the ball from hitting my arm.”
Referee Traore Boubou consulted VAR in the 84th minute before deciding to award the spot kick.
Nigeria’s victory moved them to the top of Group C, ahead of Tunisia, as they prepare for their final group match against Uganda.
The Super Eagles will face Uganda in their final group game on Tuesday.