Nigeria aim to complete a flawless Group C campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations when they face Uganda in their final group-stage match on Tuesday, with the Super Eagles already guaranteed a spot in the knockout rounds.
The Super Eagles began the tournament with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania and followed up with an impressive 3–2 win against Tunisia, building a commanding three-goal lead before fending off a late comeback. With six points from two matches, Nigeria sit atop Group C and are on course to maintain their winning form.
Head coach Éric Chelle has led the team in preparation away from the spotlight in Fez, Morocco, a strategy he says has helped maintain focus and composure. “I think this is the best town for us because we heard nothing, we see nothing, we are only focused on our group and the game,” Chelle noted. With qualification already secured, he is expected to rotate players to manage fitness and maintain momentum ahead of the knockout stage.
For Uganda, the situation is far more urgent. Coach Paul Put’s team must secure a victory over Nigeria and rely on Tunisia failing to beat Tanzania to keep their hopes of advancing alive. Uganda started their campaign with a loss to Tunisia before drawing 1–1 with Tanzania, a match in which they missed a crucial last-minute penalty.
Despite the uphill task, Uganda remains hopeful. “We are facing a good team who were finalists of the last AFCON edition,” Put said. “It’s going to be hard, it’s going to be difficult, but in football everything is possible.”
Tuesday’s clash promises to be decisive: Nigeria will be chasing perfection in the group, while Uganda fight for survival in what could be a defining encounter for both sides.
