By Malaika Nabakibi & Ngabo Amon
Uganda Cranes head into their final Group C match at AFCON 2025 with everything on the line and very little margin for hope. After a frustrating draw against Tanzania and Nigeria’s ruthless demolition of Tunisia, Uganda now need nothing short of a football miracle to survive.
Nigeria are already through and sitting comfortably at the top, while Uganda must beat them by at least four goals to stand a chance of reaching the knockout stage. It is a mountain, and the Cranes know it.
How Uganda Got Here
Uganda’s campaign has been a story of slow starts and missed opportunities. A 3–1 defeat to Tunisia exposed soft spots at the back and a lack of sharpness in front of goal. The Cranes showed fight, but they were always chasing.
Against Tanzania, they returned with more energy and intent, controlling large parts of the game. But once again, the finishing did not match the effort, and the draw left Uganda stranded on just one point heading into the final round.
Nigeria in Command
Nigeria have looked in full control from day one. Wins over Tanzania and Tunisia have underlined their quality, depth and authority. Their wide pace, midfield power and ruthless finishing have made them one of the standout sides of the tournament. They arrive confident, relaxed and dangerous.
Tactical Gamble for Uganda
For Uganda, caution is pointless. Paul Put has to send his side out to attack, chase goals early and keep the tempo high. The risk is obvious: one Nigerian counter, one mistake, and the dream could collapse instantly. Uganda will need belief, bravery and absolute discipline at the back while showing the kind of cutting edge they’ve lacked so far.
The senior players will have to stand up. Midfield control will be key. In attack, chances cannot be wasted again.
All or Nothing
Everything points Nigeria’s way, but football has never been a sport that always follows logic. Uganda know the assignment: score early, keep scoring, and defend as if the entire tournament depends on it because it does.
