2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations: Uganda Cranes Drawn in Group C with Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania
Uganda, grouped in a competitive Group C, will battle against Nigeria, Tunisia, and neighbors Tanzania in a CECAFA derby.

The much-anticipated draw for the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament took place on Monday, 27th January 2025, at the Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat, Morocco. Hosted by Morocco, the tournament promises to bring Africa’s best footballing talent to the forefront, with matches running from 21st December 2025 to 18th January 2026. Uganda, grouped in a competitive Group C, will battle against Nigeria, Tunisia, and neighbors Tanzania in a CECAFA derby.
Uganda Cranes in Group C: A Challenging Yet Promising Group
Uganda Cranes, making another appearance at Africa’s premier football tournament, face stiff competition in Group C. The group features:
Nigeria
Nigeria, three-time AFCON champions (1980, 1994, 2013), are one of the tournament’s most successful teams. Known for their attacking prowess and tactical discipline, the Super Eagles bring a mix of experienced stars and exciting young talent. They are widely regarded as favorites to top the group.
Tunisia
Tunisia, the 2004 champions, are another football powerhouse. With their solid defensive structure and technical midfielders, the Carthage Eagles are expected to mount a strong challenge for qualification to the knockout stages.
Tanzania
The CECAFA derby between Uganda and Tanzania is undoubtedly the most anticipated clash in Group C. Both teams share a rich football rivalry, and their encounters are known for intensity and passion. Tanzania, featuring rising stars, will look to outshine Uganda on the grand stage.
Uganda
The Uganda Cranes, under coach Paul Put, have steadily risen in African football. With a robust squad featuring talents such as Denis Omedi, the Cranes aim to defy the odds and secure a spot in the knockout rounds. Their derby against Tanzania and matches against Nigeria and Tunisia will test their resilience and tactical approach.
The Significance of the CECAFA Derby
The fixture between Uganda and Tanzania will undoubtedly capture the attention of East African football enthusiasts. This high-stakes encounter offers both pride and an opportunity to advance in a challenging group. The rivalry between the two nations often delivers thrilling matches, with players and fans alike showing unwavering passion.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe expressed his gratitude to King Mohammed VI, the Government of Morocco, and the 54 CAF member states for their support in organizing the tournament.
“This is the power of football to unite. African football is growing. The biggest competition on the continent will be taking place in Morocco this December,” he said during the draw.
Morocco, a country with a strong footballing history, will host the tournament in six cities and nine stadiums. The host cities—Rabat, Casablanca, Agadir, Marrakech, Fes, and Tangier—are renowned for their world-class football infrastructure and vibrant fan culture. The tournament will showcase Africa’s football excellence and Morocco’s capacity to host major global events.
Group A: Morocco (hosts), Mali, Zambia, Comoros
Group B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe
Group C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania
Group D: Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana
Group E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan
Group F: Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique
The Africa Cup of Nations has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1957. Egypt remains the most successful team with seven titles, followed by Cameroon (five) and Ghana (four). Uganda’s best performance came in 1978, when they finished as runners-up, losing to Ghana in the final. The Cranes will aim to replicate or better that success in Morocco.
The 2025 TotalEnergies AFCON promises to be a thrilling showcase of African football, with Uganda Cranes determined to make their mark in Group C. With challenging opponents like Nigeria and Tunisia, coupled with the intense CECAFA derby against Tanzania, Uganda’s journey will undoubtedly captivate fans across the continent. As the tournament draws nearer, all eyes will be on Morocco for what promises to be a spectacular celebration of African football.