A 46th minute strike from outside the box by Youssef M’Sakni was all Tunisia needed to send the Super Eagles out of the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon on Sunday.
The Super Eagles had entered the game as favourites after registering victories in their three group games. Tunisia, on the other hand, appeared more tactically prepared despite their team being ravaged by COVID-19.
Nigeria’s fortunes changed in the 66th minute when midfielder Alex Iwobi was sent off after a heavy challenge on a Tunisian opponent.
Iwobi was shown a red card after a VAR check upgraded the yellow card he was earlier given for the tackle.
The Everton midfielder had only replaced Kelechi Iheanacho, who was on a yellow card himself, in the second half.
Both teams ended the first half goalless with Nigeria controlling 56 per cent of possession.
The COVID-19-ravaged Eagles of Carthage managed to keep the Super Eagles at bay in the first 45 minutes at the Round of 16 clash played at Stade Roumde Adjia.
The north African side had vowed to approach the game like soldiers following the depletion of their squad due to COVID-19 pandemic.
Super Eagles interim coach Austin Eguavoen started the game with his trusted legs who saw off challenge from Egypt and Sudan.
Tunisia will now play Burkina Faso, who defeated Gabon on penalties earlier on Sunday, in the quarter final while Nigeria will have plenty of time to prepare for their World Cup playoff against Ghana in March.
