Uganda’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign came to an end this evening after a 3–1 defeat to Nigeria’s Super Eagles, confirming the Cranes’ exit from the tournament.
Nigeria took early control of the match, scoring twice before the game turned further against Uganda in the second half. Goalkeeper Jamal Salim, who had just come on to replace the injured Denis Onyango, was sent off barely 10 minutes after his introduction. With Uganda reduced to 10 men, Nigeria struck again moments later to seal the victory.
The Cranes managed a late consolation goal through Rogers Mato in the 75th minute, but it was not enough to change the outcome. Uganda finishes the group stage with one point from three matches, having scored three goals and conceded seven.
Nigeria completed a flawless group campaign, winning all three of their matches. Algeria finished second in the group with four points after drawing 1–1 with Tanzania, who placed third with two points. Uganda ended bottom of the group with just one point.
This was Uganda’s first appearance at AFCON since 2019, when they advanced beyond the group stage before being eliminated by Senegal.
Attention now turns to the future, with Uganda set to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside neighbours Kenya and Tanzania.
