Fez, Morocco – In a crucial Group C encounter at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, Uganda faced Nigeria at the Fez Stadium, with the hopes of a nation resting on their shoulders. The stakes were high: Uganda needed a victory to stand a chance of progressing to the round of 16. Nigeria, already qualified, presented a formidable challenge.

The match began with palpable tension. Nigeria, despite having secured their place in the next round, started strongly. Onyedika's clever chip attempted to find Victor Osimhen, but the striker was flagged offside. Uganda's coach, Paul Put, was seen making early notes, keenly observing Nigeria's approach.

Uganda fought hard, knowing that only a win would suffice. In the opening minutes, Mato went down after a challenge from Onyedika, requiring medical attention. Nigeria's Bassey received an early booking for a foul, giving Uganda a free-kick opportunity, which Mato fired wide.

Nigeria entered the match as favorites, having won their first two group matches against Tanzania (2-1) and Tunisia (3-2). Uganda, however, had managed only one point from a 1-1 draw with Tanzania, following a 3-1 defeat to Tunisia.

Historically, Uganda holds a slight edge in head-to-head encounters, with four wins to Nigeria's two, and two draws. Uganda was also unbeaten in their last three matches against Nigeria. Their only previous AFCON encounter was in the 1978 semi-finals, where Uganda emerged victorious with a 2-1 win. Abdulla Nasur and Phillip Omondi scored for Uganda, while Martins Eyo scored for Nigeria.

Going into the match, Uganda's coach, Paul Put, acknowledged the strength of the Nigerian side, finalists in the last African edition. He emphasized the need for his players to give their best and approach the game with confidence.

Uganda's goals in the tournament had come from substitutes, with Denis Omedi scoring against Tunisia and Uche Ikpeazu against Tanzania. Allan Okello had registered five shots against Tanzania, the most by a Ugandan player in a single match at the tournament.

Nigeria, aiming to maintain momentum, made eight changes to their starting lineup, although Victor Osimhen started despite being one yellow card away from suspension.

The match in Fez was more than just a game; it was a battle for survival for Uganda and an opportunity for Nigeria to fine-tune their squad ahead of the knockout stages.