Uganda began their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 campaign with a 3–1 defeat to Tunisia on Tuesday evening, as the Carthage Eagles claimed a controlled victory in their opening Group C match in Rabat.
Playing at the Annex Olympic Stadium of the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, Uganda faced a Tunisia side making an assertive start to the tournament. The North Africans took the lead in the 10th minute when Elyes Skhiri finished a structured passing move, setting the tone for much of the contest.
Tunisia continued to dominate possession and territory during the first half and doubled their advantage in the 40th minute. Elias Achouri showed composure inside the penalty area to convert after sustained pressure, sending Tunisia into the break with a two-goal lead.
Uganda attempted to reorganise after half-time, but Tunisia maintained their shape and tempo. The third goal arrived in the 64th minute, again through Achouri, who completed his brace with a low finish that effectively decided the match.
The Cranes registered their goal in stoppage time when Denis Omedi capitalised on a late defensive lapse, scoring Uganda’s first goal of the tournament. While the goal did not alter the outcome, it reduced the margin and closed the scoring.
Uganda head coach Paul Put said after the match that his side struggled to match Tunisia’s intensity, particularly in duels and set-piece situations. He noted that Tunisia’s experience at continental level proved decisive and acknowledged that Uganda will need improved aggression and efficiency in upcoming fixtures.
The defeat places Uganda under early pressure in Group C, where qualification will likely require positive results in the remaining matches. Under the current tournament format, group winners, runners-up, and the best third-placed teams advance to the knockout stage.
Tunisia, meanwhile, opened their campaign with three points and a positive goal difference, strengthening their position in the group and underlining their ambitions for the tournament.
Uganda will now turn their attention to their next group match, knowing that a win will be essential to keep their hopes of progression alive at AFCON 2025.
