2025 AFCON: Uganda coach Paul Put issues warning to Group D opponents Nigeria, Tunisia and Tanzania

Uganda head coach Paul Put has issued a confident warning to his Group D opponents Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania, ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, describing the group as “tricky but competitive.”

The Cranes will face a challenging path in their bid to progress, but Put insists his side will not be intimidated by their opponents’ pedigree.

“Nigeria are a perennial powerhouse with threats everywhere from their squad, with top talent and European experience. Tunisia are highly organised, technical, and tactically astute. They are hard to break down, but we’ll see,” Put said.

The Belgian tactician also acknowledged the unique nature of Uganda’s regional rivalry with Tanzania.

“For our neighbours, Tanzania, they are a good mix of energy and familiarity; regional derbies are never easy,” he noted.

Despite the quality within the group, Put remains optimistic about Uganda’s chances.

“We will respect all of them, but we are not intimidated. We will give a good account of ourselves,” he stated.

Uganda will open their AFCON campaign against Tunisia before taking on Nigeria and Tanzania. Put emphasised that his team’s goal is to compete with confidence and discipline throughout the tournament.

“Our objective is to advance, but we must first ensure our performances reflect modern football and commitment in all phases,” he added.

The 2025 AFCON is scheduled to kick off in Morocco on December 21, with the final set to be played on January 18, 2026.