Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika has expressed delight after being named Man of the Match following his two-goal performance in Nigeria’s 3–1 victory over Uganda at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
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Onyedika, who was making his first appearance at AFCON 2025, scored twice in the second half to seal Nigeria’s final Group C win and cap a dominant team display in Fès.
The midfielder described the award as a reward for years of persistence and hard work, stressing that moments like this make the sacrifices worthwhile.
“I’m very happy to win the Man of the Match,” Onyedika said. “It’s a reward for the years of hard work and patience.”
Onyedika also highlighted the intense competition within the Super Eagles squad, noting that players must remain focused and ready even when opportunities are limited.
“You have to stay focused and keep working, even when you’re not playing,” he added. “The competition is high, and it makes it difficult for the coach because everyone wants to play.”
The Club Brugge midfielder believes the internal competition is healthy for the team, pushing players to raise their standards and deliver when called upon.
“It pushes everyone to give their best,” he said.
Nigeria finished the group stage with a perfect nine points from three matches, and Onyedika believes the squad must now maintain focus as the tournament moves into the knockout phase.
“We’ve done well so far, but the real test starts now,” he concluded.
