Uganda Cranes Fight for Survival as Nigeria Eyes AFCON 2025 Group Glory

The Complex Sportif de Fès will host a crucial Group C clash as Uganda and Nigeria go head-to-head for a spot in the Round of 16 at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. Kick-off is set for 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT).

This encounter marks only the second meeting between Uganda and Nigeria at AFCON finals, adding extra significance to an already high-stakes game. Their only previous AFCON showdown came in the 1978 semi-finals, where Uganda edged Nigeria 2-1. Abdulla Nasur gave Uganda an early lead in the 11th minute, before Martins Eyo equalised for Nigeria in the 54th. Phillip Omondi’s decisive strike four minutes later sent Uganda through.

Current Stakes

Nigeria enters this match as heavy favourites, having already secured progression with two wins from their opening group matches. Uganda, sitting third in the group with just one point from two games, must win to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Pre-Match Insights

Paul Put – Uganda Coach: “We are facing a very good team — finalists in the last African edition — and they have shown their quality again. But we know why we are here. If we want to change our situation, we must get a good result. It will be hard, but at this level, everything is still possible. Our last performance gives me confidence; the mentality and commitment were strong, and I expect the players to perform at that level again against Nigeria.”

Jordan Obita – Uganda Midfielder: “Playing Nigeria is exciting. As players, it’s a dream to face the best. We’ll give our all to earn a result and improve our chances of qualifying. We know the expectations and will do our best not to disappoint.”

Eric Sekou Chelle – Nigeria Coach: “Football is unpredictable, and you need to make the most of your opportunities. We know chances will be limited, so one must count. The players understand the stakes, and I believe they will give their all.”

Wilfred Ndidi – Nigeria Captain: “I feel privileged to represent my country. Every player dreams of wearing this jersey. We are hungry for this game, aware of its importance, and ready to give everything on the pitch.”

Match Stats & Key Form

Uganda have struggled in AFCON 2025, losing 1-0 to Tunisia before a 1-1 draw with Tanzania. Both goals scored so far have come from substitutes — Denis Omedi against Tunisia and Uche Ikpeazu against Tanzania, with Omedi directly involved in both. Allan Okello registered five shots against Tanzania, the most by any Ugandan in a single match. Despite creating chances, Uganda have conceded four goals from seven shots on target and remain winless in their last five AFCON matches.

Nigeria, in contrast, have already secured progression with wins over Tanzania and Tunisia. The Super Eagles have scored in nine consecutive AFCON games and aim to win all three group matches for the first time since 2021. Victor Osimhen has netted twice in the tournament, assisted by Ademola Lookman, who has contributed to three goals overall. With 16 consecutive appearances in AFCON knockout stages, Nigeria’s consistency and experience make them formidable opponents.

Head-to-Head:

Uganda hold a slight historical advantage with four wins to Nigeria’s two, plus two draws. The Cranes are unbeaten in their last three encounters (W2 D1), but Nigeria’s quality and experience make this a formidable challenge.