Uganda Cranes face Nigeria in must-win AFCON Group C clash

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Uganda Cranes will face Nigeria in a decisive Group C match of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations on December 30 at the Complex Sportif de Fès in Morocco.

This will be the second meeting between Uganda and Nigeria at the AFCON finals. Their only previous encounter came in the semi-finals of the 1978 tournament, when Uganda won 2-1 to reach the final. Abdulla Nasur and Phillip Omondi scored for Uganda, while Martins Eyo netted for Nigeria.

Overall, the two sides have met eight times in all competitions. Uganda hold a slight edge with four wins, while Nigeria have two, and two matches ended in draws. Uganda are also unbeaten in their last three meetings against the Super Eagles.

Uganda come into the match with one point from two games. They lost 3-1 to Tunisia in their opening fixture before drawing 1-1 with neighbours Tanzania. That draw kept their hopes alive but left them with no margin for error.

Nigeria, meanwhile, have already secured qualification for the knockout stage after winning their opening two matches against Tanzania and Tunisia. They sit top of Group C and will be aiming to complete the group stage with a perfect record.

Historically, Uganda have struggled in final group matches at AFCON, winning their last group game only once, in 1978. Failure to win on Tuesday would see the Cranes exit the tournament without a victory.

Uganda will, however, take confidence from recent performances. Substitutes have played a significant role, with Denis Omedi and Uche Ikpeazu scoring Uganda’s two goals at the tournament. Omedi has been involved in both goals so far.

Nigeria, led by striker Victor Osimhen and winger Ademola Lookman, have scored in every AFCON match since 2021 and are known for their aerial strength.

For Uganda to progress, victory over Nigeria is essential. They will also require a favourable result in the other Group C match between Tunisia and Tanzania, with goal difference potentially decisive.