Paul Put: ‘Uganda must show mental strength against Nigeria’

Emmanuel Onyeacholem
2 Min Read

Uganda head coach Paul Put has underlined belief, bravery and mental strength as key ingredients for his side ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations Group C clash against Nigeria in Morocco.

‎ With qualification hanging in the balance, the Cranes know only a positive result will keep their campaign alive when they take on the Super Eagles in their final group match.

‎Nigeria approach the encounter in commanding form, having secured maximum points from their opening two fixtures and carrying the confidence of a team that finished as runners-up at the last AFCON.

Uganda, on the other hand, have managed one point so far, following a defeat to Tunisia and a draw against Tanzania, making Tuesday’s contest a must-win affair.

Uganda coach Paul Put (left)
Uganda coach Paul Put (left)

Despite acknowledging the quality and pedigree of their opponents, Put insists his players are ready to compete. “We know we are facing a very good team, who were the finalists in the last AFCON edition. Also, they have performed very well, because they have the maximum of their points,” the Belgian tactician said.

He added: “The players are willing to give their best for tomorrow’s (Tuesday) game. It’s going to be hard, it’s going to be difficult, but in football, everything is possible. We want to stick with the mentality that everyone is beatable and see what will happen.”

Uganda national football team
Uganda national football team

Uganda defender Jordan Obita also stressed the importance of belief within the squad, noting, “The team spirit is very high. We know we need to go into the game for a win. So, we cannot go into the game with any fear. We have to go into the game with full belief, and that’s what we’re going to do.”

‎The two sides have rarely met at the AFCON level, adding extra intrigue to a fixture that could define Uganda’s tournament journey.

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Emmanuel Onyeacholem Chukwuyem is a sports journalist, football commentator, writer, and broadcaster focused on African football, delivering in-depth coverage of domestic leagues, national teams, and major international tournaments.
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