The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been placed in what many fans are calling an “easy” group for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which is set to be hosted in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) conducted the draw for the tournament on Monday, January 27, at the Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat, Morocco. Nigeria, ranked fifth in Africa and seeded in Pot 1, avoided some of the continent’s heavyweights and will instead face Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda in Group C.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) delegation to the draw included Technical and Development Committee chairman Sharif Inuwa and the team’s newly appointed head coach, Éric Chelle.
Super Eagles fans react: Optimism & concerns
The draw has sparked widespread debate among Nigerian football fans. Many expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ chances of progressing to the knockout stages, given their status as the most successful team in the group with three AFCON titles.
By contrast, Tunisia have only won once, while Uganda and Tanzania have yet to claim the coveted trophy.
On social media, some fans declared the draw a blessing for Nigeria’s new head coach, Chelle, with many insisting that the group stage presents a golden opportunity to build momentum for the latter stages of the tournament.
Others, however, were more cautious. While Tunisia is known for their pragmatic and defensively solid approach, Uganda and Tanzania have earned a reputation for their physicality and resilience.
“Tunisia is always a tough nut to crack with their negative football. Uganda and Tanzania will fight for every ball. The Super Eagles need to come prepared,” another fan observed.
Concerns were also raised about Nigeria’s midfield creativity, a long-standing issue for the team.
The Super Eagles boast a strong record against Group C opponents but will need to tread carefully.
Tunisia famously defeated Nigeria en route to their only AFCON triumph in 2004 and will undoubtedly pose a stern test. Uganda and Tanzania, while less heralded, are capable of springing surprises with their combative style of play.
