Already guaranteed top spot in Group C, Nigeria conclude their Africa Cup of Nations group-stage campaign against Uganda at the Fez Stadium on Tuesday, with the Cranes still fighting to keep their knockout hopes alive.
The Super Eagles have taken maximum points from their opening two matches and sit three points clear at the summit, while Uganda remain bottom on one point, trailing third-placed Tanzania on goal difference.
Match Preview
Nigeria Balance Brilliance and Fragility
Nigeria once again demonstrated both their quality and susceptibility in their thrilling 3–2 victory over Tunisia, a match that saw them surge into a commanding three-goal lead before nervously hanging on late.
Goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman put Eric Chelle’s men in full control, but a late header from Monastir Talbi and a penalty converted by Ali Al-Abdi nearly completed a dramatic Tunisian comeback.
That encounter highlighted a recurring theme for the Super Eagles—devastating going forward but occasionally vulnerable at the back. Nigeria have now both scored and conceded in seven of their last eight matches, including their 2–1 opening win over Tanzania.
Still, the results speak for themselves. Nigeria have won seven of their last 10 matches in all competitions and boast an impressive seven wins from their last nine AFCON group-stage games.
With qualification to the knockout rounds secured for a 16th consecutive tournament, and top spot already wrapped up, the three-time champions will nevertheless be keen to underline their title credentials and maintain momentum.
Uganda Seek Upset to Keep AFCON Dream Alive
Uganda arrive at matchday three under pressure, but not without hope. Making their first AFCON appearance since 2019, the Cranes collected their first point of the tournament in a 1–1 draw with Tanzania, a game that could have ended very differently had Allan Okello converted a stoppage-time penalty.
That draw followed a 3–1 defeat to Tunisia in their opening match and leaves Paul Put’s side with just one win in their last 10 AFCON fixtures.
Despite their struggles, Uganda can draw confidence from a relatively favourable head-to-head record against Nigeria, having won four of the previous eight meetings between the sides.
Even if a top-two finish proves elusive, the Cranes know that a positive result could still see them qualify as one of the best third-placed teams, making Tuesday’s encounter a must-win in practical terms.
Team News
Uganda
Uganda reported no fresh injury concerns after their draw with Tanzania, giving head coach Paul Put a full squad to select from.
The Belgian tactician made five changes in his last outing, including a switch in goal, with veteran Denis Onyango replacing Jamal Salim—a decision that could be retained.
Forward Uche Ikpeazu, who has Nigerian roots, is pushing for a starting role after scoring off the bench against Tanzania.
Nigeria
Eric Chelle made two alterations to his starting XI in the previous match, with Bruno Onyemaechi and Frank Onyeka coming in, and both are expected to keep their places.
Victor Osimhen opened his AFCON account last time out, Wilfred Ndidi netted his first-ever international goal, while Ademola Lookman has scored in consecutive matches.
With qualification secured, rotation is expected, and players such as Chidera Ejuke, Moses Simon and Paul Onuachu could be handed increased minutes.
Possible Lineups
Uganda:
Onyango; Kayondo, Sibbick, Byaruhanga, Obita; Semakula, Mutyaba, Okello; Omedi, Mato, Ssemugabi
Nigeria:
Nwabali; Onyemaechi, Bassey, Ajayi, Osayi-Samuel; Ndidi, Iwobi, Onyeka, Lookman; Osimhen, Adams
Form Guide
Uganda (AFCON): L, D
Uganda (All Competitions): W, L, W, L, L, D
Nigeria (AFCON): W, W
Nigeria (All Competitions): W, W, L, L, W, W
Prediction
Uganda 1–2 Nigeria
Nigeria’s attacking firepower should once again make the difference, even with possible squad rotation. Uganda are capable of causing problems and may find the net, but the Super Eagles’ superior quality is expected to prevail in a competitive and entertaining contest.
