Uganda head coach Paul Put has urged his squad to quickly move past their weekend disappointment and refocus ahead of a decisive Group C showdown with Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Belgian tactician was speaking after Uganda’s 1-1 draw with Tanzania left the Cranes stuck at the bottom of the group with just one point from two matches. With only one fixture remaining, Uganda’s qualification hopes now hinge on delivering a standout performance against one of the tournament’s strongest teams.
Nigeria head into Tuesday’s final group match in high spirits. The Super Eagles have already secured their place in the knockout stage and need only a draw to finish top of the group.
Despite frustration over missed opportunities against Tanzania, Put insisted that belief within the squad must remain strong as they prepare to face the in-form Nigerians.
“I told the players that we must keep believing,” Put said in comments to CAFonline. “We have to fight until the final game. Of course, we are disappointed, but now it’s about resetting our mindset and getting ready for Nigeria, a very difficult opponent.”
Nigeria have lived up to expectations so far, recording convincing victories over Tanzania and Tunisia to collect the maximum six points. Their attacking threat has been shared across the team, with Victor Osimhen opening his tournament account, Wilfred Ndidi scoring his first international goal, and Ademola Lookman finding the net in consecutive AFCON matches.
With qualification already assured, Nigeria coach Éric Chelle could opt to rotate his squad. Players such as Chidera Ejuke, Moses Simon, and Paul Onuachu are pushing for starting roles, while defenders Bruno Onyemaehi and Frank Onyeka—both used against Tunisia—may retain their places.
Uganda, however, face a far tougher scenario. After opening their campaign with a 3-1 defeat to Tunisia, the Cranes showed promise against Tanzania but were denied victory when Allan Okello missed a stoppage-time penalty—an incident that could prove pivotal in their tournament journey.
There was some positive news for Uganda, with no new injury concerns reported. That gives Put the option to select from a full squad once again. The 69-year-old made several changes in the previous match, including in goal, where veteran Denis Onyango replaced Jamal Salim and could be trusted once more.
Forward Uche Ikpeazu, who has Nigerian heritage, is also pressing for a starting spot after coming off the bench to score Uganda’s equaliser against Tanzania. His impact could be crucial if Uganda are to pull off an upset.
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