AFCON2025: How Nigeria was Drawn into Difficult Group C for 2025 AFCON in Morocco

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The Super Eagles of Nigeria face a challenging task at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after being drawn into Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.

The draw took place in Morocco on Monday, ahead of the tournament scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

 

Group C Overview

  1. Nigeria
    • Titles: 3 (1980, 1994, 2013)
    • Appearances: 21 (including 2025)
    • Last performance: 2023 runner-up (lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast).
  2. Tunisia
    • Titles: 1 (2004, as hosts).
    • Appearances: 21.
    • Familiar opponents who eliminated Nigeria in the 2021 Round of 16.
  3. Uganda
    • Appearances: 8.
    • Co-hosts of the 2027 AFCON, making this tournament part of their preparation for the spotlight.
  4. Tanzania
    • Appearances: 3.
    • Another 2027 AFCON co-host, relatively inexperienced compared to their Group C rivals.

 

Nigeria’s AFCON Record

The Super Eagles are one of the most decorated teams in AFCON history:

  • Medals: 16 in 20 appearances (3 gold, 5 silver, 8 bronze).
  • Most recent title: 2013.
  • 2023 Performance: Silver medalists, losing to hosts Ivory Coast in the final.

 

Other Group Highlights

  • Group A: Hosts Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros.
  • Group B: Seven-time champions Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe.
  • Group D: Defending champions Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana.
  • Group E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan.
  • Group F: Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique.

 

Nigeria’s Base: Fez

The Super Eagles will be based in Fez, a historic city in northern Morocco.

Key Facts about Fez:

  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its ancient medina (Fes el Bali).
  • Landmarks: Al-Qarawiyyin University, the gates of the Royal Palace, and traditional tanneries.
  • Population: Over 1 million.
  • Infrastructure: Fez boasts notable Islamic architecture, including tombs, madrasas, and gardens, making it a cultural hub.

AFCON Stadium in Fez:

  • Complexe Sportif de Fès: A 35,468-capacity venue, one of nine stadiums designated for the tournament.

What to Expect

Nigeria will aim to progress as group leaders, leveraging their AFCON experience and squad depth.

Tunisia’s competitive history presents a familiar challenge, while Uganda and Tanzania are expected to add unpredictable elements as they prepare for their co-hosting duties in 2027.

The Super Eagles are poised to continue their pursuit of a fourth continental title and bring it home this time.

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