Nigeria’s Super Eagles have emerged as one of the strongest contenders for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, according to Uganda’s head coach, Paul Put.
In a post-match interview following Uganda’s 3-1 loss to Nigeria, the Belgian tactician praised the Super Eagles’ balance, quality, and tactical organization, drawing comparisons to Nigeria’s 2013 AFCON-winning team.
Put, who coached Burkina Faso to the 2013 final, noted that Nigeria’s current squad resembles the structure and efficiency that saw them lift the continental trophy under the late Stephen Keshi.
The performance of the Super Eagles so far in the tournament, particularly their flawless group-stage record, has impressed many.
With three straight wins over Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, Nigeria has topped Group C, marking them as one of the standout teams in Morocco.
Nigeria’s potent attack, led by players like Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu, has been a key feature of their dominance, scoring eight goals—the highest tally in the competition.
Impressively, six different players have found the net, showcasing the team’s varied and unpredictable attacking threats.
“Your team today is very good, similar to the 2013 team. The way they play, the system they use, reminds me a lot of that squad,” said Put.
“I believe they have a strong chance to go deep into the tournament, potentially even reaching the final.”
Nigeria’s victory over Uganda was secured by a first-half goal from Onuachu and two second-half strikes from Raphael Onyedika.
Despite Rogers Mato’s late consolation goal for Uganda, the result confirmed Nigeria’s place in the round of 16, where they will face one of the third-placed teams from Group F. Possible opponents include defending champions Ivory Coast, Cameroon, or Mozambique.
Put, reflecting on Uganda’s exit from the tournament, acknowledged that his team had failed to capitalize on their earlier opportunities, especially their crucial match against Tanzania, which ultimately cost them a spot in the knockout rounds.
Uganda ended the group stage with just one point, while Nigeria advanced as the top team in their group.
As Nigeria looks ahead to the knockout stages, the Super Eagles’ ambition of clinching their fourth AFCON title remains very much alive.
With the team firing on all cylinders, the road to the final promises to be an exciting one for Eric Chelle’s side.
