The Super Eagles of Nigeria will take to the pitch at the Fez Stadium at 5:00 p.m. (WAT) on Tuesday, December 30, aiming to maintain their impressive momentum when they face Uganda in their final Group C match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Already assured of a place in the Round of 16, Nigeria head into the encounter with confidence after recording successive victories over Tanzania and Tunisia. While qualification is secured, the Super Eagles remain focused on finishing the group stage with maximum points.
Uganda’s situation could not be more contrasting. The Cranes must secure all three points to keep their slim hopes of reaching the knockout rounds alive, making Tuesday’s clash a high-stakes affair.
The fixture also carries historical significance. This will be only the second meeting between both sides at AFCON finals, with Uganda famously defeating Nigeria 2-1 in the semi-finals of the 1978 tournament. Overall, the Cranes hold a slight edge in past meetings, with four wins from eight encounters, while Nigeria have recorded two victories and two draws.
Uganda are unbeaten in their last three matches against Nigeria, including two wins and a draw. Nigeria’s last competitive victory over the East Africans came during the 2007 AFCON qualifiers, when Nwankwo Kanu scored the decisive goal in Abeokuta.
Despite that record, Nigeria’s pedigree at AFCON remains formidable. Their victory over Tunisia marked their 35th group-stage win at the tournament, second only to Egypt. The Super Eagles have now won four consecutive AFCON group matches, each by a one-goal margin, and another win on Tuesday would see them complete a perfect group campaign for the first time since 2021.
Under head coach Éric Chelle, Nigeria have also been consistent in attack, finding the net in each of their last nine AFCON matches and in their previous eight group-stage appearances.
Much of Nigeria’s attacking threat has come from the growing partnership between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. Osimhen’s header against Tunisia—his second goal of the tournament—was once again assisted by Lookman, meaning both of the striker’s goals at this AFCON have been created by the winger.
Lookman’s influence has been particularly notable. His goal and two assists against Tunisia made him only the second Nigerian player since 2010 to be directly involved in three goals in a single AFCON match. With five goals and three assists in nine AFCON appearances, he continues to be a key figure as Nigeria look to sharpen their edge.
In midfield, captain Wilfred Ndidi has provided leadership and stability, while Alex Iwobi’s composure has helped Nigeria control matches. Frank Onyeka impressed with his energy against Tunisia, and the availability of Raphael Onyedika and Tochukwu Nnadi gives Chelle flexibility as he considers possible rotation.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Monday, Chelle emphasized the importance of healthy competition within the squad.
“Competition is not only about the starting eleven,” Chelle said. “Every player deserves a chance to show what they can offer. Sometimes, a substitute can change a game or even decide a tournament. My goal is always to field the best team possible.”
Uganda arrive in Fez carrying regrets. A defeat to Tunisia followed by a draw against Tanzania has left them bottom of the group with one point. Missed chances have proven costly, none more so than Allan Okello’s stoppage-time penalty miss against Tanzania.
Veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango has anchored a resilient side, while Nigeria-born Uche Ikpeazu, along with Denis Omedi, James Bogere and Okello, remain central to Paul Put’s plans as Uganda chase a result that could extend their stay in Morocco.
The Cranes have progressed beyond the AFCON group stage only twice in their history—in 1978 and 2019—and will need to defy Nigeria’s strong form to achieve that feat again.
Where to Watch Nigeria vs Uganda
The match will be broadcast across Channel 4’s network in the UK and Canada.
In Nigeria, live coverage will be available on NTA Sports 24, NTA’s national station, and SuperSport’s dedicated AFCON channels on DStv. International viewers can follow the game on beIN Sports, SuperSport, Canal+ Afrique, DAZN and other partner networks, with streaming options including beIN Connect, TOD and Fubo TV.
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