Ndidi: Super Eagles Focused on Uganda AFCON 2025 Showdown
Ndidi set the tone ahead of Nigeria’s clash with Uganda, insisting that the team’s focus is firmly on the next challenge.
‘The atmosphere in the team is good. Everyone is excited and confident, but the previous games are in the past. The focus is on the next game,’ the captain declared, as the Super Eagles prepare to conclude their group phase campaign at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco.
Nigeria, already assured of a place in the Round of 16, need only a draw to secure top spot in Group C. Uganda, however, face a do-or-die situation, requiring victory to keep their tournament hopes alive.
The Cranes have historically been a thorn in Nigeria’s side, dating back to their famous 2-1 semi-final win in Kumasi in 1978, but their current form leaves them with much to prove.
Veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango and his teammates have struggled, collecting just one point so far. After a heavy defeat to Tunisia and a missed penalty against Tanzania, their fate now rests on upsetting Nigeria. Yet the Super Eagles, determined to sustain their winning mentality, look unlikely to falter.
Victor Osimhen, celebrating his 27th birthday, has 32 goals in 48 appearances for Nigeria and is eager to mark the occasion with another strike.
Alongside him, Ademola Lookman has been electric, scoring twice and providing two assists in this tournament, continuing the form that made him Africa Player of the Year.
Nigeria’s midfield, marshalled by Ndidi, has also impressed, with Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and others adding depth and creativity.
Nigeria’s record speaks volumes: 19 knockout appearances, 35 group-stage wins, and only one loss in their last 16 AFCON group games. Uganda, meanwhile, cling to history, having progressed beyond the group stage only twice before, in 1978 and 2019.
Coach Paul Put is expected to start Uche Ikpeazu, supported by James Bogere, Allan Okello, and Denis Omedi, but they face a daunting task against a Nigerian side chasing their 150th AFCON goal.
The stage is set at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, where the Super Eagles aim to underline their dominance, while Uganda fight for survival.
