The Super Eagles land in Morocco fired up, with AFCON 2025 their shot at reminding everyone they’re still a force in African football, Footynaija.com reports.
But before talking trophies, Eric Chelle’s squad faces a tough Group C packed with eager teams, rich history, and the kind of surprises that can shake up any tournament.
Nigeria’s group features Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania. Each opponent brings a unique threat, and the head-to-head (HTH) record tells an interesting story about what to expect when the action starts.
Nigeria vs Tunisia
Tunisia is the team Nigeria knows best in this group. Across 21 all-time meetings, Nigeria has 6 wins, Tunisia 7, and 8 draws.
The rivalry stretches back decades and includes World Cup qualifiers, AFCON clashes, and friendlies. The Super Eagles will still remember the AFCON 2021 Round of 16, when Tunisia eliminated Nigeria (1-0) in a tense encounter. That alone makes this more than just a group game. It’s about payback, pride, and getting it right this time.
Tunisia are tough because they stay organised and defend with real discipline. They know how to frustrate attacking teams and wait for openings. Nigeria will need to move the ball smoothly, stay sharp, and keep their cool. One wrong pass, and Tunisia will pounce.
Nigeria vs Uganda
Uganda has a habit of catching the Super Eagles off guard. In 8 meetings between both sides, Uganda has won 4, Nigeria just 2, with the other 2 ending in draws.
The Cranes’ proudest moment against Nigeria came in 1978, when they beat the Eagles 2–1 during AFCON. In modern times, under Belgian coach Paul Put, they stay well organised and use their physicality and counter-attacks to frustrate opponents.
For Nigeria, this is a warning that every game in Group C needs full focus. One slip-up against Uganda could turn into a shocking headline, and the team knows that all too well.
Nigeria vs Tanzania
Tanzania, the Taifa Stars, come into AFCON 2025 as undisputed underdogs. Nigeria has owned this matchup, with 4 wins and 3 draws from 7 meetings so far.
Past meetings include a 3–1 victory in the 1980 AFCON and a 1–0 win in 2016, highlighting Nigeria’s consistent edge. But the Super Eagles cannot take the Taifa Stars lightly; their players, led by Mbwana Samatta, and guided by Argentinian coach Miguel Gamondi, are determined to make a mark. Discipline and quick counter-attacks could make them a tricky opponent, especially if Nigeria starts too casually.
Looking at the head-to-head, Tunisia remains the most formidable opponent on paper, Uganda represents a tricky, historically tough matchup, and Tanzania is an underdog Nigeria is expected to overcome.
The records provide context, but football is played on the pitch, not in history books. For Eric Chelle and the Super Eagles, the plan is to start strong, respect every opponent, and aim to finish top two.
