Group C of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations presents a compelling mix of pedigree, tactical discipline, and ambitious underdogs. Nigeria stand out as clear favorites on paper, boasting superior individual quality and tournament experience. Tunisia arrive with their trademark organization and game intelligence, while Uganda and Tanzania lurk as dangerous outsiders capable of disrupting expectations. Ultimately, qualification in this group is likely to be decided by fine margins — defensive concentration, efficiency in front of goal, and the ability to manage pressure in decisive moments.

Nigeria: Talent-Rich Favorites Under Pressure

Nigeria enter Group C with arguably the most gifted squad in the group. Their attacking unit combines pace, power, and creativity, giving the Super Eagles multiple avenues to goal. With a history as three-time AFCON champions, Nigeria also possess invaluable tournament pedigree and the confidence that comes with it. Their physical dominance and tactical flexibility should allow them to adapt to different opponents and game scenarios.

Key figures define their threat. Victor Osimhen is a world-class striker whose pace, aerial ability, and clinical finishing can dismantle any defense. Ademola Lookman offers creativity and directness from wide areas, often rising to the occasion in big games, while Alex Iwobi provides the crucial link between midfield and attack, driving transitions and supplying creativity.

Despite their strengths, Nigeria are not without vulnerabilities. Defensive lapses, particularly in the full-back areas, remain a concern, as does an over-reliance on Osimhen for goals. Against disciplined opponents, the Super Eagles can sometimes struggle to control midfield spaces. Moreover, the pressure of expectation — intensified by their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup — could weigh heavily on the squad. Well-organized teams with sharp counter-attacks may exploit Nigeria’s defensive transitions if concentration drops.

Nevertheless, Group C offers Nigeria a favorable platform to build momentum. Early dominance and squad rotation against weaker opposition could allow emerging players to add depth, provided the team maintains focus and discipline.

Tunisia: Tactical Discipline and Experience

Tunisia approach the tournament with a familiar identity: defensive organization, tactical discipline, and intelligent game management. As seasoned AFCON campaigners, the Carthage Eagles understand how to navigate group stages and grind out results, even when not at their best.

Youssef Msakni remains the creative heartbeat of the side, providing leadership and decisive moments in attack. Ellyes Skhiri’s intelligence and ball-winning ability anchor the midfield, while Montassar Talbi offers solidity and aerial strength at the back. Together, they form the spine of a team built on structure and resilience.

However, Tunisia’s limitations are evident in their attacking play. Creativity can be scarce, particularly against deep-lying defenses, and parts of their squad are aging, making it difficult to chase games after conceding first. Their heavy reliance on Msakni for invention is a notable weakness, and when facing faster, more athletic opponents, their lack of pace is often exposed.

Still, Tunisia’s set-piece threat and defensive solidity allow them to frustrate stronger teams and steal narrow victories. Against compact sides like Uganda or Tanzania, though, breaking down stubborn defenses could prove challenging.

Uganda: Organized Underdogs with Limited Firepower

Uganda enter Group C as underdogs, but not without strengths. The Cranes are defined by strong team cohesion, disciplined defensive organization, and impressive physical resilience. Their work rate and tactical obedience make them difficult to break down, especially for teams that underestimate them.

Denis Omedi provides a focal point in attack, Khalid Aucho anchors midfield with leadership and defensive awareness, and Elvis Bwomono brings reliability and experience to the back line. This core underpins Uganda’s ability to stay competitive in tight matches.

Yet, their shortcomings are clear. Uganda lack consistent attacking firepower and top-level tournament experience, often struggling to maintain possession against stronger sides. When they concede early, their game plan tends to unravel, as individual brilliance from elite opponents usually proves decisive.

With little pressure on their shoulders, Uganda can frustrate favorites and look to counter-attack. A positive early result could significantly boost their confidence, but sustaining momentum across the group will be a major challenge.
Tanzania: Energetic and Ambitious, but Vulnerable

Tanzania arrive with an energetic, disciplined approach and growing tactical awareness. Their strong team spirit and quick transitions make them a dangerous counter-attacking side, capable of unsettling more established teams.

Experienced forward Mbwana Samatta offers leadership and a goal threat, Simon Msuva brings pace and creativity from wide areas, and Novatus Miroshi provides balance and ball progression in midfield. These elements give Tanzania the tools to compete and potentially spring a surprise.

However, defensive inconsistencies remain a major concern, particularly against elite attackers. Limited AFCON experience compounds this issue, as does unreliable finishing in crucial moments. When leading, Tanzania often struggle with game management, and lapses in concentration have proven costly in the past.

This tournament presents an opportunity for Tanzania to make a statement. Aggressive pressing and speed could trouble both Nigeria and Tunisia, but recurring defensive errors and mental lapses may ultimately undermine their ambitions.

Conclusion

Group C promises a fascinating battle of contrasting styles. Nigeria’s superior talent makes them favorites, but pressure and defensive frailties could complicate their path. Tunisia’s experience and discipline ensure they remain serious contenders for qualification, while Uganda and Tanzania possess the organization and energy to cause upsets. In a group where the margins are slim, clinical finishing, defensive focus, and mental strength will likely determine who advances.