Uganda head coach Paul Put says his players must quickly move on from weekend disappointment and ‘reset the mindset’ ahead of a defining Group C showdown with Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Belgian tactician spoke after Uganda’s 1-1 draw with Tanzania left the Cranes bottom of the group with one point and their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.
The Super Eagles, by contrast, arrive for Tuesday’s final group game in complete control, already through to the knockout stages and needing only a draw to secure top spot.
Put admitted frustration at the missed opportunity against Tanzania but insisted his squad must now focus on the task ahead; facing a Nigeria side in form, confident, and rich in attacking options.
“I spoke to the players and informed that we need to keep the belief,” Put told CAFonline.
“You have to play until the last game. Yes, we are disappointed, but we need to reset the mindset and prepare for the match against Nigeria, which we know will not be easy.”
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Nigeria vs Uganda: Different realities, same stakes
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been one of the standout teams of the group stage so far, recording impressive wins over Tanzania and Tunisia to move onto six points. Their place in the last 16 is already secure, and a point against Uganda would guarantee they finish top of Group C.
Goals have flowed from across the pitch. Victor Osimhen opened his account for the tournament last time out, Wilfred Ndidi scored his first-ever goal for Nigeria, and Ademola Lookman has found the net in consecutive AFCON matches.
With qualification assured, head coach Éric Chelle may rotate his squad. Chidera Ejuke, Moses Simon and Paul Onuachu are among those pushing for more minutes, while Bruno Onyemaehi and Frank Onyeka, who came into the side against Tunisia, could retain their places.
Uganda’s situation is far more precarious. After losing 3-1 to Tunisia on matchday one, the Cranes looked the stronger side against Tanzania but were left to rue Allan Okello’s stoppage-time penalty miss, a moment that could yet define their tournament.
Still, Uganda emerged from that match without new injury concerns, leaving Put with a full squad available. The 69-year-old made five changes in his last starting XI, including a switch in goal, where Denis Onyango replaced Jamal Salim and may continue.
Uche Ikpeazu, who has Nigerian roots, is pushing for a start after scoring Uganda’s equaliser against Tanzania, and could be key if the Cranes are to cause an upset.
Statistically, the challenge is stark. Uganda have just one win in their last 10 AFCON matches (D3, L6) and face the prospect of a fifth group-stage exit in eight appearances.
History offers a glimmer of belief, though. Uganda have won four of their previous eight meetings with Nigeria, drawing two and losing two, and will hope that familiarity can breed confidence rather than fear.