AFCON 2025: Super Eagles warned ahead of crucial clash with Uganda

Nigeria will play Uganda on Tuesday evening in their last Group C match at the 1XBET Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Both teams are coming into the match with different goals. Nigeria have already qualified for the Round of 16 and only need a draw to finish top of the group. Uganda, however, must win the match to have any chance of qualifying.

Uganda, known as the Cranes, have always been a tough team for Nigeria. Their first AFCON meeting was 47 years ago in 1978, when Uganda beat Nigeria in the semi-finals. Since then, matches between both teams have often been difficult.

Uganda are on just one point because of their own mistakes. They lost to Tunisia, then drew with Tanzania after missing a penalty. Nigeria-born striker Uche Ikpeazu scored the equaliser against Tanzania, but Allan Okelo failed to score from the penalty spot.

To qualify, Uganda must beat Nigeria. But this will not be easy because the Super Eagles are in good form and want to keep winning to scare other teams in the tournament.

Victor Osimhen has scored only one goal so far, but Ademola Lookman has been outstanding. Lookman has scored two goals and made two assists in this tournament. His goals have been powerful and difficult to stop.

Osimhen, who turned 27 on Monday, will also be motivated to score a special birthday goal. He now has 32 goals in 48 matches for Nigeria.

Nigeria’s midfield has been strong. Captain Wilfred Ndidi has played very well, Alex Iwobi has been excellent, and Frank Onyeka impressed against Tunisia. Other midfielders are also ready to play if needed.

Nigeria have reached the 1XBET AFCON knockout stage more times than any other country. The win over Tunisia was their 35th group-stage victory in AFCON history.

Uganda will take hope from past results. In eight previous matches against Nigeria, Uganda have won four, lost two, and drawn two. Uganda have only gone beyond the AFCON group stage twice, in 1978 and 2019.

Uganda are expected to start with Ikpeazu, while players like Okello, Denis Omedi and James Bogere could also cause problems.

Nigeria have scored 149 goals in AFCON history and will be aiming for their 150th goal in this match. The game will kick off at 5pm on Tuesday in Fez.

Coach Eric Chelle said everyone on the team will get chances to play, adding that substitutes can change games and even win tournaments.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi said the team spirit is high, but the players are focused only on the next match.