The Super Eagles of Nigeria will lock horns with the Cranes of Uganda in their final Group C match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Tuesday, December 30, at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.
Uganda head into the encounter needing an outright victory to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive, while Nigeria, already assured of a place in the Round of 16, requires only a draw to finish top of the group.
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Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s leading striker, has scored once in the tournament so far and will be eager to add to his tally, especially after celebrating his 27th birthday on Monday. The Napoli forward now boasts 32 goals in 48 appearances for the Super Eagles and remains a constant threat.
Ademola Lookman has once again emerged as a key figure, scoring twice in the current tournament and providing two assists, building on his impressive return from the 2023 finals. His left-footed strikes have been decisive and eye-catching.
Nigeria’s midfield has also impressed, with captain Wilfred Ndidi leading by example, Alex Iwobi producing commanding displays, and Frank Onyeka shining against Tunisia. Raphael Onyedika and Tochukwu Nnadi are yet to be fully tested, adding further depth to the squad.
The Super Eagles are the most consistent team in AFCON knockout-stage history, having now qualified for the Round of 16 for the 19th time. Their victory over Tunisia marked Nigeria’s 35th group-stage win at the tournament, and they have lost just once in their last 16 Africa Cup of Nations group matches.
Nigeria have scored 149 goals in 106 AFCON matches and will also be chasing a milestone 150th goal when kick-off comes at 5pm on Tuesday.
Speaking ahead of the match, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle said. “The competition is not only for the starting eleven; everybody deserves a chance to play and show what they can offer. Sometimes, a player coming off the bench can change a game or even win a tournament.”
Ndidi added, “The atmosphere in the team is very good. Everyone is excited and confident, but the previous games are in the past. Our focus is on the next match.”
