Nigeria’s final Group C match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against Uganda on Tuesday comes with two major talking points: squad rotation and an emotional subplot involving Uganda forward Uche Ikpeazu.
The Super Eagles have already secured qualification for the round of 16 and confirmed top spot in the group. With nothing at stake in terms of standings, head coach Eric Chelle faces a key decision — whether to rest his star players or maintain momentum ahead of the knockout phase.
A victory would see Nigeria complete the group stage with a perfect record for only the fourth time in their AFCON history. However, past editions suggest that flawless group campaigns have often ended painfully for the Super Eagles, adding a layer of superstition to Chelle’s selection dilemma.
Uganda, on the other hand, must win to guarantee qualification as one of the best third-placed teams, though a draw could still be enough depending on other results.
ROTATION DILEMMA FOR CHELLE
With qualification sealed, Chelle could make wholesale changes without consequence. However, history warns against disrupting team rhythm too much. Previous Nigerian teams that heavily rotated after early qualification — notably at the 1998 World Cup and AFCON 2019 — suffered losses that affected their knockout performances.
Chelle remains unbeaten so far, with seven wins and three draws, and may opt to field a balanced side strong enough to avoid defeat while resting key names.
Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Semi Ajayi and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali are all one yellow card away from suspension. With bookings wiped after the group stage, benching them would eliminate unnecessary risk. Osimhen, in particular, may be protected to avoid injury in what is effectively a dead rubber.
Midfielder Frank Onyeka is also a doubt after picking up a knock in the win over Tunisia, opening the door for Raphael Onyedika or younger midfielders to feature.
THE IKPEAZU STORYLINE
One of the most intriguing angles is Uganda striker Uche Ikpeazu, born to a Nigerian father and Ugandan mother. Though previously open to representing Nigeria, competition in the Super Eagles attack made Uganda the more realistic option.
Ikpeazu has already scored in the tournament and has made it clear his loyalty lies fully with the Cranes — even against his father’s homeland. If he scores against Nigeria, it would be one of the most emotional moments of the group stage, with Nigerian fans likely cheering him alongside Ugandans.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Matches between Nigeria and Uganda have historically been tight, with Uganda surprisingly holding a slight head-to-head advantage. Even with rotation, Nigeria’s squad depth suggests they should be competitive.
Whether Chelle prioritises superstition, squad management or maintaining momentum, the clash promises intrigue — not for qualification drama, but for the choices that could shape Nigeria’s knockout campaign in Morocco.
