Nigeria Faces Uganda in Critical AFCON Group Match Today

FEZ, Morocco — The Nigeria Super Eagles are set to play Uganda in their final Group C match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations at Fez Stadium today at 5 p.m. WAT.

Nigeria, having already secured their spot in the knockout stage with two wins, will look for a third victory against Uganda, who need a win to keep their hopes alive of advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.

The Super Eagles are riding high after defeating Tanzania 2-0 and Tunisia 3-2 in their previous matches. Coach Eric Chelle has some flexibility with his lineup, as the game largely holds no consequence for Nigeria.

“We’re here to compete, not just participate,” said Chelle. Nigeria leads Group C with six points, while Uganda sits at the bottom with just one point from a draw and a loss.

Uganda’s chances of advancing depend heavily on this match, creating a tense atmosphere. They will aim to turn around their fortunes after losing 3-1 to Tunisia in their opening match and settling for a 1-1 draw against Tanzania.

Striker Victor Osimhen has been a standout performer for Nigeria so far, scoring crucial goals. Alongside him, Ademola Lookman, with two goals and two assists, has been pivotal in Nigeria’s offensive play.

Meanwhile, Uganda’s forward Uche Ikpeazu, who has Nigerian heritage, expressed hopes of scoring against his father’s country. “If I was to dedicate this goal, it would go to my grandparents,” he said, reflecting on his family’s connection to Nigeria.

The past meetings between Nigeria and Uganda have seen the latter with a surprisingly strong record, winning four times compared to Nigeria’s two victories. The last competitive encounter between the teams was in 2007, when Uganda won 2-1 in AFCON group play.

Nigeria and Uganda will take the field with their respective lineups. Nigeria’s starting XI includes goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and strikers Osimhen and Paul Onuachu, while Uganda features Denis Onyango in goal and Uche Ikpeazu up front.