Uganda captain Denis Onyango has expressed optimism regarding his team's chances of getting a result against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in their final group stage match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025), reports Soccernet.ng.
Nigeria and Uganda are set to lock horns at the Complexe Sportif De Fès to wrap up their Group C campaigns.
For the Super Eagles, the fixture is essentially a dead rubber, as they have already secured the top spot in the group following back-to-back victories over Tanzania and Tunisia.
In contrast, the Cranes find themselves in a precarious position. Uganda are effectively condemned to defeat Nigeria to keep their hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages alive.
But even though securing a win against the three-time African champions is a big task, Onyango remains undeterred.
On paper, this is a classic David vs. Goliath battle. The Super Eagles are heavy favorites given their superior quality, achievements, and current form.
On the other hand, the Cranes have often struggled on the big stage, and a victory here would be considered a monumental feat in Ugandan football history.
What Denis Onyango Said About Uganda's Chances Against Super Eagles
Despite Uganda's low chances of defeating Nigeria, Onyango believes his side has what it takes to produce a shock result against the Super Eagles.
“We still have a chance. Tanzania are playing Tunisia, which is possible. We're playing Nigeria which is possible, because anything is possible in this tournament,” Onyango said.
“We just keep believing and keep going because that's why we are here. Someone must be upset.”
Uganda Cranes face Nigeria tomorrow in their final AFCON group game, aiming to advance after a 3-1 loss to Tunisia and 1-1 draw with Tanzania.
Sitting bottom with one point, Denis Onyango says the team still has a chance, while Nigeria leads the group with six points.… pic.twitter.com/ZIlPG11MJy
— NTV UGANDA (@ntvuganda) December 29, 2025
In the last 45 years, Uganda have gone past the group stage of the AFCON just once. However, history tilts slightly in the Cranes' favour, as they have defeated Nigeria four times in eight meetings.
Moreso, there is a chance that Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will rotate his starting eleven. So, the Cranes can remain optimistic.
