Super Eagles aim to secure a perfect group stage record against a desperate Uganda side – live updates, predicted lineups, and expert predictions.
The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 group stage reaches its climax in Group C today, December 30, with Nigeria’s Super Eagles facing Uganda’s Cranes at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Fez, Morocco. Kick-off is at 5:00 PM WAT (6:00 PM GMT / 4:00 PM GMT in some listings).
Nigeria have already sealed top spot in the group and qualification for the Round of 16 with back-to-back victories: a 2-1 win over Tanzania and a thrilling 3-2 triumph against Tunisia. The Super Eagles are one of only three teams (alongside Egypt and Algeria) to have secured knockout progression after two matches, showcasing their title credentials despite missing the 2026 World Cup.
For Uganda, it’s do-or-die. The Cranes have just one point from a 3-1 loss to Tunisia and a 1-1 draw with Tanzania (where they missed a late penalty). A win could still propel them into the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams, but anything less likely ends their campaign.
Current Group C Standings (After Matchday 2)
| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | GF | GA | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 3 | 6 |
| Tunisia | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
| Tanzania | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 1 |
| Uganda | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 1 |
(The simultaneous match: Tanzania vs Tunisia – a Tunisia win would secure second spot.)
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle has hinted at significant rotation, calling the lineup a “surprise” to rest key players ahead of the knockouts. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali (minor injury), striker Victor Osimhen, midfielder Frank Onyeka, and stars like Ademola Lookman and Wilfred Ndidi could be rested or limited.
Predicted Nigeria XI (4-3-3): Uzoho; Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Alhassan, Akinsanmiro, Iwobi; Ejuke, Onuachu, Simon
Uganda XI (likely 4-4-1-1): Onyango; Semakula, Sibbick, Obita, Kayondo; Okello, Byaruhanga, Alhassan, Mato; Mutyaba; Ikpeazu (Uche Ikpeazu, with Nigerian roots, scored their equalizer vs Tanzania and could be a threat.)
Head-to-Head
- Overall: Uganda lead with 4 wins to Nigeria’s 2 (2 draws).
- Last meeting: 0-0 friendly in 2018.
- Last AFCON clash: Uganda 2-1 Nigeria (1978 semi-final – ancient history!).
Recent games have been tight, often decided by one goal.
Key Players to Watch
- Nigeria: Ademola Lookman (in scintillating form, involved in multiple goals) or substitutes like Chidera Ejuke/Moses Simon for flair.
- Uganda: Denis Omedi/ Allan Okello in midfield; Ikpeazu up top for physical presence.
Predictions
Nigeria are heavy favorites, even with rotation – their squad depth is superior. Experts predict a comfortable win to complete a perfect group stage (only the fourth time in Super Eagles history).
- Sports Fever Prediction: Nigeria 2-0 Uganda (Clean sheet for the rotated defense; goals from set-pieces or counters.)
- Other tips: Nigeria to win (odds around 1.40-1.50); Under 2.5 goals likely in a controlled game.
Where to Watch (Nigeria)
- NTA Sports 24, NTA National Station
- SuperSport AFCON channels (202/205)
Stay tuned to Sports Fever for live updates during the match, post-game reactions, player ratings, and knockout draw implications. Will the Super Eagles fly into the Round of 16 unbeaten? Drop your score predictions in the comments!