Uganda head coach Paul Put has expressed confidence ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, saying his team is not afraid of facing Nigeria’s Super Eagles. The Cranes are placed in a tough Group C alongside Nigeria, Tunisia and Tanzania for the tournament in Morocco.

Nigeria and Tunisia are widely seen as favourites to qualify from the group due to their strong football history and squad strength. Nigeria are three-time AFCON champions, while Tunisia won the title in 2004. Despite the challenge, Put insists Uganda will not be overwhelmed by the big names in the group.

Speaking to CAFonline, Put admitted that the Super Eagles have quality everywhere in the team, with many players competing in top European leagues. However, he stressed that football is not played on reputation and Uganda will fight hard on the pitch. “We respect them, but we are not scared,” he said.

Put also highlighted his personal experience facing Nigeria, having led Burkina Faso to the AFCON 2013 final where they narrowly lost 1-0 to the Super Eagles. He believes that experience will help him guide Uganda in Morocco and give a strong performance despite the tough opponents.

Uganda will begin their AFCON campaign on December 23 against Tunisia. Put says the Cranes want to prove themselves on the big stage and compete with the best teams in Africa, not just participate. Fans will be watching to see if Uganda can pull off surprises in Group C.