Uganda's national team coach, Paul Put, has fired a strong warning shot at the Super Eagles of Nigeria ahead of their decisive final Group C match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Uganda's Must-Win Situation Against Nigeria
The encounter, scheduled for Tuesday, December 30, is a do-or-die affair for The Cranes. After two matches, Uganda finds itself in a precarious position at the bottom of Group C. They suffered a 3-1 defeat to Tunisia and managed only a 1-1 draw with Tanzania, leaving them with just a single point.
To keep their faint hopes of advancing to the knockout stage alive as one of the best third-placed teams, Uganda must secure a victory against the formidable Super Eagles. This sets the stage for a high-stakes clash where the underdogs have everything to gain.
Paul Put's Confident Message: "Everything is Possible"
In a viral video shared on social media platform X, the Belgian tactician displayed unwavering belief in his team's ability to cause an upset. Put emphasized the unpredictable nature of football, a factor he hopes will play into Uganda's hands.
"Like I said, you need your moment in the game but football is unpredictable," Put stated. "If you have an opportunity, it is very important that you can finish the opportunity."
He acknowledged the challenge of facing a Nigerian side packed with attacking talent, including Napoli star Victor Osimhen. Put indicated that his defensive unit is prepared for the task, focusing on efficiency over volume of chances.
"We know that we cannot get ten opportunities in the game, so sometimes with one opportunity it is enough to decide the game," he explained. "We'll see and try but we go and play all the players we know and go for the win. It is going to be hot, difficult but in football, everything is possible."
Historical Context and Nigeria's Pedigree
Put was respectful of Nigeria's quality, noting their journey to the final in the previous 2023 AFCON edition in Ivory Coast. The Super Eagles have also started the 2025 tournament strongly, winning their first two matches.
"You know we are facing a very good team; they were the finalist in the last AFCON edition," he admitted. "In a way we play Nigeria and we know why we have to play. If we want to make a chance, then we have to get a good result."
Interestingly, history offers Uganda a glimmer of hope. In the eight previous meetings between the two nations, Uganda holds a superior record with four wins. Nigeria has won twice, with two matches ending in draws. This historical edge may provide a psychological boost for The Cranes.
The match promises to be a tense finale to Group C, with Uganda fighting for survival and Nigeria aiming to top the group. All eyes will be on whether Paul Put's warning translates into a performance that can shock the three-time AFCON champions.
