Uganda Cranes Coach Fires Warning to Nigeria Ahead of Do-or-Die AFCON Clash

Uganda Cranes coach Paul Put remains confident that his charges can stun Nigeria and secure the victory that they need to revive their hopes at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Put watched as his side blew away a chance to win their match against Tanzania when Allan Okello blasted over a late penalty to leave them on one point from two games, having opened their campaign with a defeat to Tunisia.

They now face Nigeria on Tuesday needing to win to revive their chances of reaching the Round of 16 although they would also require a favourable result in the match between Tunisia and Tanzania.

While they face a tough task against a star-studded Nigeria, who have the likes of Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, Put remains confident that they can win the match that kicks off at 7pm East African time.

“We know we are facing a very good team, who were finalists at the last AFCON. They have performed very well and have maximum points. My players will give their best tomorrow. It will be hard and difficult, but in football, everything is possible,” said Put.

Nigeria have already sealed their place in the Round of 16 and coach Eric Chelle has admitted he will rotate his squad which could give Uganda hope.

The Cranes might not face the Nigeria big names, a scenario they can take advantage of in the match set to be played in Fes.

“The team spirit is very high. We know we need to win, so we cannot go into the game with fear. We have to play with full belief, and that’s exactly what we will do,” said Uganda defender Jordan Obita.

Uganda will be facing Nigeria at AFCON for only the second time, having won the only other meeting 2-1 in the 1978 semi-final.

Overall, Nigeria and Uganda have met eight times with the Cranes winning four, the Super Eagles twice while two ended in draws.