Former Nigeria international Andrew Uwe has cautioned the Super Eagles against lowering their guard when they face Uganda on Tuesday in what could be a decisive, table-topping Group C encounter at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025.
Nigeria have already sealed qualification for the Round of 16, but needs at least a point from the final group match to guarantee top spot. Uwe warned that a defeat could see the Super Eagles drop to second place should Tunisia defeat Tanzania, with the North Africans likely to move ahead on goal difference.
Speaking to Sports Village Square from his base in Germany, Uwe stressed the importance of focus and discipline against an Ugandan side still chasing qualification.
“I am delighted to see the team regaining their esteem and confidence,” Uwe said. “But this is not the time to relax. Matches like this are dangerous because the pressure is different. Uganda have everything to fight for, while Nigeria must still protect their position at the top of the group.”
Uwe, a former central defender, is fondly remembered for captaining Nigeria’s Flying Eagles to their first-ever podium finish at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, where they claimed third place at the 1985 edition in the Soviet Union after a fierce battle with the host nation.
He believes the Super Eagles must approach the Uganda match with the same intensity that earned them qualification, noting that finishing top of the group could provide a psychological and tactical advantage heading into the knockout phase.
“Tournament football rewards consistency,” he added. “If the Super Eagles maintain their focus and hunger, they can carry this momentum deep into the competition.”
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