Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put has acknowledged the challenging task ahead after his team was placed in Group C of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania.
Speaking after the draw, Put emphasized the level of competition at this stage and the importance of thorough preparation.
“It’s a tough group,” Put admitted. “Nigeria were finalists in South Africa, while Tunisia are strong contenders. Tanzania are also a strong team.”
“We expected this. Once you qualify for the finals, you are guaranteed to face the toughest teams on the continent,” he added.
Put expressed his belief that Uganda’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers would serve as a crucial opportunity to prepare the squad for the AFCON finals.
“We have the World Cup qualifiers this year too, so that will give us a chance to prepare and assess the team ahead of the AFCON finals,” he said.
Uganda is set to face Algeria, Guinea, Mozambique, Botswana, and Somalia in the qualifiers, which kick off in March.
The coach also noted the significance of the East African derby against Tanzania, a matchup expected to generate plenty of regional excitement.
“We shall have an East African derby against Tanzania, but we expect every game to be tough and different. We shall prepare for each game and not underestimate any opponent,” he stated.
Uganda’s placement in Group C pits them against two continental heavyweights.
Nigeria, with their record of three AFCON titles and a squad teeming with European-based stars, pose a formidable challenge.
Tunisia, known for their technical proficiency and disciplined play, will also be a tough test for the Cranes.
Tanzania, though less decorated, has grown into a competitive side in recent years, and their familiarity with Uganda adds an extra layer of intrigue to their encounter.
The Cranes, who last reached the knockout stages of AFCON in 2019, will aim to defy expectations and advance from the group.
