By Kunle Solaja.
Group C of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off in Morocco on Sunday, features a compelling mix of pedigree, experience, and emerging ambition.
Three-time champions Nigeria headline the group alongside seasoned North African contenders Tunisia, East African challengers Uganda and improving Tanzania, setting up a series of intriguing contests split between Fes and Rabat.
Fixtures (Kick-off times GMT)
- Dec 23 (12:00) – Fes: Nigeria v Tanzania
- Dec 23 (14:30) – Rabat: Tunisia v Uganda
- Dec 27 (12:00) – Fes: Nigeria v Tunisia
- Dec 27 (19:00) – Rabat: Tanzania v Uganda
- Dec 30 (17:00) – Fes: Nigeria v Uganda
- Dec 30 (17:00) – Rabat: Tanzania v Tunisia
Nigeria: Favourites with Depth and Firepower
Nigeria arrive in Morocco aiming for a fourth continental crown, having previously lifted the trophy in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
Making their 20th appearance at the finals, the Super Eagles are ranked 38th in the world and topped their qualifying group ahead of Benin, Rwanda and Libya.
Under new coach Eric Sékou Chelle, Nigeria boast one of the most balanced squads in the competition.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali anchors a defence featuring Premier League experience in Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka power the midfield.
Up front, the Eagles possess an enviable array of attacking options, led by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, supported by Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon and Paul Onuachu. Nigeria will play all three group matches in Fes, a logistical advantage that could prove decisive.
Tunisia: Consistency and Continental Know-How
Tunisia are appearing at the AFCON finals for the 21st time, underlining their reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent performers. Winners on home soil in 2004, the Carthage Eagles enter the tournament ranked 40th globally and qualified as runners-up behind Comoros in their group.
Coached by Sami Trabelsi, Tunisia combines European-based talent with tactical discipline. Midfield general Ellyes Skhiri, veteran Ferjani Sassi and Burnley midfielder Hannibal Mejri provide experience and control, while defenders Ali Abdi and Montassar Talbi offer solidity at the back.
Tunisia’s clash with Nigeria in Fes is expected to be one of the standout group matches.
Uganda: Seeking a Return to Past Glory
Uganda, runners-up at the 1978 Africa Cup of Nations, return for their eighth finals appearance, hoping to recapture past promise. Ranked 85th in the world, the Cranes qualified behind South Africa in their group and are coached by the experienced Belgian tactician Paul Put.
With veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango and a blend of Europe- and Africa-based players, Uganda aim to combine resilience with attacking intent. Strikers such as Steven Mukwala and Uchechukwu Ikpeazu will be key if the Cranes are to challenge for progression.
Uganda must still trim their provisional 30-man squad by two players ahead of the tournament.
Tanzania: Determined Underdogs
Tanzania completes Group C as underdogs but arrives with confidence after qualifying for their fourth AFCON finals. Ranked 112th globally, the Taifa Stars finished runners-up behind DR Congo in qualification, edging Guinea and Ethiopia.
Argentine coach Miguel Gamondi has built a disciplined squad featuring a strong domestic core from Simba and Young Africans, alongside experienced forward Mbwana Samatta. Tanzania will be keen to build on their recent AFCON appearances and secure a first-ever knockout-stage win.
Group C Outlook
Group C promises a fascinating contest between tradition and ambition. Nigeria’s attacking depth makes them favourites, but Tunisia’s consistency, Uganda’s resilience and Tanzania’s hunger ensure no easy matches.
With key encounters spread across Fes and Rabat, the group is poised to deliver drama, tactical battles and defining moments as the race for the knockout stage unfolds.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
