Belgian manager describes Super Eagles as ‘Perennial powerhouse’ ahead of AFCON 2025 showdown

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will take on Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda in Group C during the AFCON 2025 tournament…

Head coach of the Ugandan National Football team, Paul Put, has named the Super Eagles of Nigeria as one of the favourites to win the AFCON 2025, Soccernet.ng reports.

Uganda head into the Total Energies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 in drawn in a challenging group alongside Nigeria, Tunisia and regional rivals Tanzania.

The Cranes have qualified for the tournament just eight times in their history, and their most memorable run came in 1978 when they reached the final.

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Paul Puts respects Super Eagles

Uganda's head coach, Belgian tactician Paul Put, is confident his side has what it takes to qualify from Group C, despite the household names they have to take on.

However, he has special respect for Eric Chelle's side.

“Nigeria? They are a perennial powerhouse. There are threats everywhere from their squad with top talent and European experience,” the 69-year-old said in quotes with CAF Online.

“Tunisia? They are highly organized, technical, tactically astute. They are hard to break down but we will see.

“Tanzania? For our neighbours Tanzania they are a good mix of energy and familiarity — regional derbies are never easy.

“We will respect all of them, but we are not intimidated. We will give a good account of ourselves.

Quizzed about what would count as a successful group stage campaign for the Cranes, Put said:

“Ideally, we want to advance. But first, we demand that our performances reflect modern football: balance, full engagement in all phases, and consistency.

“If we can win respect among African heavyweights and secure knockout qualification, that’s a job well done.

“Set pieces can swing tight matches. We have worked on variation in delivery, timing, and defensive organisation.

“Many of our players already face pressure set-piece environments at club level, so we aim to bring that into AFCON. I believe they can be decisive,” he concluded.

Uganda's first game at the AFCON 2025 will be against Tunisia on December 23 at the Stade Olympique de Rabat.