Morocco 2025: Super Eagles Warned of Tough Test Against Uganda
Nigeria will face Uganda on Tuesday evening as the Super Eagles round off their Group C matches at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The match means different things to both teams. Nigeria, three-time champions, have already qualified for the Round of 16 and only need a draw to finish top of the group. Uganda, however, must win to keep their hopes of progressing alive.
The Cranes have always been difficult opponents for Nigeria. Their rivalry dates back 47 years, when Uganda defeated Nigeria in the semi-finals of the 1978 AFCON in Kumasi.
Uganda sit on one point going into the final group match. They lost to Tunisia in their opening game and drew with Tanzania after coming from behind. Nigerian-born striker Uche Ikpeazu scored the equaliser, but Allan Okelo missed a penalty that could have given Uganda all three points.
To qualify, Uganda must beat Nigeria, a task made harder by the Super Eagles’ strong form. Nigeria are keen to maintain momentum and send a clear warning to other title contenders.
Victor Osimhen has scored once so far in the tournament, while Ademola Lookman has been Nigeria’s standout player. Lookman has netted two goals and provided two assists and has been one of the most dangerous attackers at the competition.
Osimhen, who turned 27 on Monday, will also be eager to mark his birthday with another goal. He now has 32 goals in 48 appearances for Nigeria.
Nigeria’s midfield has also impressed, with captain Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka all playing key roles. Raphael Onyedika and Tochukwu Nnadi are also available if needed.
Nigeria have now qualified for the AFCON knockout stage for a record 19th time and have lost just one of their last 16 group-stage matches in the competition.
Uganda will draw confidence from past meetings between both sides. In eight previous encounters, Uganda have won four times, Nigeria twice, with two draws. The Cranes have only progressed beyond the group stage twice, in 1978 and 2019.
The match will kick off at 5pm on Tuesday at the Complexe Sportif de Fès. Nigeria will also be aiming to score their 150th goal in AFCON history, having netted 149 goals so far.
Speaking ahead of the match, Nigeria coach Eric Chelle said every player deserves a chance. “Sometimes a substitute can change a game or even win a tournament,” he said.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi added: “The atmosphere in the team is good. We are confident, but our focus is fully on the next game.”
