RABAT, Morocco (AFP) — Star strikers Victor Osimhen and Sadio Mane scored as Nigeria qualified for the knockout stage of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, and Senegal edged closer to joining them.

Osimhen opened the scoring for the Super Eagles just before half-time, and they built a three-goal lead before surviving a late Tunisia rally to win 3-2 in Fes.

Victory ensured three-time champion Nigeria became the second nation after record seven-time winner Egypt to secure a Last-16 place.

Mane struck as Senegal came from behind to draw 1-1 with the Democratic Republic in Tangiers, a result that kept both former African champions on course for the second round.   

Osimhen was a constant menace to the Tunisians as he scored his second AFCON goal, and first since the opening round of the 2024 tournament. 

Much improved after a scrappy opening win over Tanzania, Nigeria lost momentum in the closing stages and Tunisia twice came close to equalising in added time.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi, with his first goal for the national team, and Ademola Lookman were the other Nigerian scorers before Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi netted to set up a tense climax.

Nigeria have six points in Group C, Tunisia three and Tanzania and Uganda one each going into the final round of games on Tuesday. 

Uganda's Allan Okello missed a late penalty as his side had to settle for a 1-1 draw against neighbours Tanzania.

Uche Ikpeazu had scored a late equaliser for the Cranes in front of 10,540 fans at Al Medina Stadium in Rabat.

Before that it looked like Tanzania, winless in 10 previous matches across four AFCON tournaments, might finally break their duck when Simon Msuva put them in front from the penalty spot.

In Tangiers, Cedric Bakambu gave DR Congo the lead just after the hour mark, but Al Nassr forward Mane replied soon after and the result ensured Senegal stayed top on goal difference with one round to play.

"The result was a bit frustrating. We could have killed the game in the first half, but we didn't," Senegal coach Pape Thiaw said.

"What I really appreciated was my players' reaction after conceding — that was a good thing. Next time, we need to know how to close out games earlier.”

"We will continue to work on converting our chances into goals."