Cranes Must Beat Nigeria in Final Group C Clash to Keep Knockout Hopes Alive.

Jordan Obita

Uganda defender Jordan Obita has declared his team’s confidence in extending their impressive head-to-head record against Nigeria when the sides meet in the final Group C fixture at AFCON 2025 on Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

The match at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Fez kicks off at 17:00 local time, with the Cranes needing a victory to harbor any realistic chance of advancing to the Round of 16, potentially as one of the best third-placed teams.

Obita, speaking ahead of the showdown, emphasized Uganda’s historical edge: “We’re confident of maintaining our good record against Nigeria.”

Uganda have indeed proven tough opponents for the three-time champions, winning four of the eight all-time meetings (with two draws and two losses for Nigeria). Notably, the Cranes remain unbeaten in the last three encounters, including a goalless friendly draw in 2018.

Their only previous AFCON clash came in the 1978 semi-finals, where Uganda triumphed 2-1 en route to finishing as runners-up.

Nigeria, already qualified as group winners with six points from thrilling wins over Tanzania and Tunisia (3-2), are expected to rotate squad members under coach Eric Chelle. Players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman may be rested to avoid suspension risks.

Meanwhile, Uganda, bottom of the group with one point after a loss to Tunisia and a draw with Tanzania, will draw inspiration from goalkeeper Denis Onyango‘s fighting words and the team’s resilient spirit.

Can the Cranes pull off an upset and keep their tournament dreams alive? The stage is set for another chapter in this intriguing rivalry. Go Cranes. 🇺🇬 vs 🇳🇬