Uganda’s national team coach, Paul Put, has declared that his side will not be intimidated by Nigeria’s Super Eagles when the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off in Morocco.
The Cranes are drawn in Group C alongside three-time African champions Nigeria, 2004 winners Tunisia, and East African rivals Tanzania — a grouping many have labelled one of the toughest in the tournament.
Despite facing two of Africa’s football giants, Put insists Uganda are ready to compete with the best and will not be overawed by their opponents’ pedigree. The Belgian tactician, who famously guided Burkina Faso to the 2013 AFCON final before losing 1–0 to Nigeria, said his team’s focus is on performance and respect rather than fear.
“They (Super Eagles) are a perennial powerhouse. There are threats everywhere from their squad with top talent and European experience,” Put told CAFonline. “We will respect all of them, but we are not intimidated. We will give a good account of ourselves.”
Uganda’s qualification for the continental showpiece marks their eighth AFCON appearance, with the East African side aiming to surpass their best performance — a runners-up finish in 1978.
The Cranes are expected to open their campaign against Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles on December 23, before taking on Tanzania and Nigeria in what could prove to be decisive group fixtures.
With Nigeria and Tunisia widely tipped to advance, Put’s confidence signals Uganda’s intent to cause an upset in Morocco and rewrite their AFCON history.
