AFCON 2025 Group C Preview: Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania
Group C of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations features a compelling mix of pedigree, ambition, and tactical contrast, with Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania set to battle for progression to the knockout stage.
Nigeria arrive as group favourites after topping their qualification group and maintaining a strong recent AFCON record, including a runner-up finish at the last edition.
Tunisia bring continental experience and tactical discipline, while Uganda return after missing the previous two tournaments.
Tanzania, meanwhile, are aiming to build on recent progress and make history with a second consecutive AFCON appearance.
Nigeria
Nicknamed the Super Eagles, Nigeria are three-time African champions and one of the continent’s most successful football nations. They made their AFCON debut in 1963, three years after independence, and the 2025 tournament will mark their 21st appearance.
Nigeria won the AFCON in 1980, 1994, and 2013, and are currently ranked 38th in the FIFA World Rankings (November 2025), fifth in Africa. They also hold the record as Africa’s highest-ever ranked nation, having climbed to fifth globally following their debut at the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
Eric Chelle’s side will lean heavily on Victor Osimhen, who remains in his prime and is expected to lead the attack after Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. The Galatasaray forward will be supported by a strong cast of attackers and creative midfielders.
Leadership responsibility now rests with Wilfred Ndidi, who captains the side following the retirement of former skipper William Troost-Ekong on the eve of the tournament. Ekong famously led Nigeria to the AFCON 2023 final in Côte d’Ivoire, where he emerged as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.
Fixtures
Nigeria vs Tanzania — December 23 (Complexe Sportif de Fes, Fes)
Nigeria vs Tunisia — December 27 (Complexe Sportif de Fes, Fes)
Uganda vs Nigeria — December 30 (Complexe Sportif de Fes, Fes)
Tunisia
The Carthage Eagles are making their 22nd AFCON appearance, having debuted in 1962. Their finest moment came in 2004, when they lifted their only AFCON title on home soil.
Tunisia remain in search of a second continental crown and are currently ranked 40th globally and sixth in Africa. Under head coach Sami Trabelsi, they are known for their structured defensive approach combined with efficiency in attack.
A key figure is Hamza Rafia, the Lecce midfielder whose pace, flair, vision and technical ability add creativity to Tunisia’s attacking play. Rafia blends European composure with North African ingenuity and is regarded as one of Tunisia’s brightest talents.
Fixtures
Tunisia vs Uganda — December 23 (Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah Olympique Annexe, Rabat)
Nigeria vs Tunisia — December 27 (Complexe Sportif de Fes, Fes)
Tanzania vs Tunisia — December 30 (Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah Olympique Annexe, Rabat)
Uganda
The Cranes are making their eighth AFCON appearance, having first featured in 1962. Their best-ever performance remains a runner-up finish in 1978.
Currently ranked 85th in the world and 17th in Africa, Uganda return to the AFCON after missing the last two editions. Head coach Paul Put has built a disciplined and resilient side.
Captain Khalid Aucho is central to Uganda’s ambitions. The experienced midfielder breaks up play, controls tempo, and provides leadership in high-pressure situations, embodying the Cranes’ fighting spirit.
Fixtures
Tunisia vs Uganda — December 23 (Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah Olympique Annexe, Rabat)
Uganda vs Tanzania — December 27 (Stade El Barid, Rabat)
Uganda vs Nigeria — December 30 (Complexe Sportif de Fes, Fes)
Tanzania
The Taifa Stars are making their fourth AFCON appearance, having debuted in 1980, when Nigeria hosted and won the tournament. Their previous campaigns in 1980, 2019 and 2023 all ended at the group stage.
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AFCON 2025 marks a milestone for Tanzania, as it is the first time they will appear in consecutive tournaments. They are currently ranked 112th globally and 27th in Africa.
A key player is Ibrahim Hamad, the Young Africans defender who has been a mainstay since his international debut in 2023. Strong, reliable and capable of contributing goals, Hamad leads from the back and represents Tanzania’s steady improvement.
Fixtures
Nigeria vs Tanzania — December 23 (Complexe Sportif de Fes, Fes)
Uganda vs Tanzania — December 27 (Stade El Barid, Rabat)
Tanzania vs Tunisia — December 30 (Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah Olympique Annexe, Rabat)
Verdict
Based on history, squad depth and current form, Nigeria and Tunisia are favourites to battle for the top two spots in Group C. However, Uganda and Tanzania are well placed to compete strongly for a possible best third-place qualification, setting the stage for a tightly contested and intriguing group.
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