Uganda head coach Paul Put has called on his players to embrace the challenge and prove themselves at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, after the Cranes were drawn into a difficult Group C alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania.
The Belgian tactician acknowledged the strength of their opponents, particularly Nigeria, runners-up at the last AFCON, and Tunisia, a tournament regular with deep runs in past editions. However, he remains firm in his belief that Uganda must approach the competition with confidence and determination.
“We know there are no easy games in Africa,” Put said. “Nigeria reached the final in the last AFCON, and Tunisia is always competitive, regularly making the quarter-finals. But we must believe in ourselves and take this opportunity.”
This marks Uganda’s eighth AFCON appearance, their last coming in 2019, where they reached the Round of 16 before bowing out to Senegal. The Cranes’ best performance remains 1978, when they finished as runners-up to Ghana.
AFCON 2025: A stepping stone for 2027
With Uganda set to co-host AFCON 2027 alongside Kenya and Tanzania, Put sees AFCON 2025 as a crucial test in preparing for that historic moment.
“We must prepare well and be ready to compete,” he noted. “This tournament will be a great opportunity for our players to showcase their talent and give something to the Ugandan people.”
One of the most anticipated matches in Group C will be the clash between Uganda and Tanzania, two of the AFCON 2027 co-hosts, as they battle for regional bragging rights.
Uganda’s AFCON history and road ahead
The Cranes have had their share of memorable moments at AFCON, including their biggest victory, a 3-0 win over Morocco in 1978. Ugandan football legends like Phillip Omondi and Stanley Mubiru remain the country’s top AFCON scorers, each with three goals.
While Uganda may not carry the same expectations as Nigeria or Tunisia, Put remains optimistic that his team can make an impact and gain valuable experience ahead of their historic role as tournament hosts in 2027.
With the tournament set to kick off on December 21, 2025, the Cranes are eager to prove themselves on Africa’s biggest stage.
