Uganda head coach Paul Put has urged his players to put their latest setback behind them and refocus mentally as they prepare for a crucial Group C showdown against Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Belgian tactician spoke after the Cranes’ frustrating 1–1 draw with Tanzania, a result that left Uganda rooted to the bottom of the group with just one point and their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
A stoppage-time penalty miss proved costly, turning what could have been a vital win into a moment of regret.
Nigeria, meanwhile, come into Tuesday’s encounter from a position of strength.
The Super Eagles have already secured their place in the knockout stages after back-to-back victories over Tanzania and Tunisia, and need only a draw to finish top of Group C.
Despite the contrasting situations, Put insists his team must keep faith.
“I spoke to the players and told them we need to keep the belief,” Put said.
“You have to play until the last game. Yes, we are disappointed, but we must reset the mindset and prepare for Nigeria. We know it will not be easy.”
Nigeria flying, Uganda fighting for survival
Nigeria have been one of the most impressive sides of the group stage so far, with goals coming from all areas of the pitch.
Victor Osimhen has opened his tournament account, Wilfred Ndidi scored his first-ever goal for the national team, and Ademola Lookman has now found the net in consecutive AFCON matches.
With qualification already assured, head coach Éric Chelle could rotate his squad.
Players like Chidera Ejuke, Moses Simon and Paul Onuachu are pushing for starts, while Bruno Onyemaehi and Frank Onyeka may retain their places after strong performances against Tunisia.
Uganda’s reality is far more delicate. After a 3–1 defeat to Tunisia on matchday one, the Cranes showed improvement against Tanzania but failed to make it count.
Encouragingly for Put, there are no new injury concerns, and he has a full squad available.
Goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who replaced Jamal Salim against Tanzania, could keep his place, while Uche Ikpeazu a striker with Nigerian roots is pressing for a start after scoring Uganda’s equaliser last time out.
Slim hope, but history offers belief
The statistics underline the scale of Uganda’s task. The Cranes have managed just one win in their last 10 AFCON matches and face the possibility of a fifth group-stage exit in eight tournament appearances.
Still, history provides a small boost. Uganda have won four of their eight previous meetings with Nigeria, drawing two and losing two a reminder that an upset, while unlikely, is not impossible.
For Paul Put and his players, the message is clear:
