Uganda goalkeeper Denis Onyango has explained that his team’s desperation played a major role in their loss to Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Cranes suffered a 3–1 defeat to the Super Eagles on Tuesday, a result that officially ended Uganda’s hopes of progressing to the Round of 16. Going into the match, Uganda knew only a victory would keep their qualification ambitions alive, forcing them to push forward in search of goals.
Nigeria took full advantage of the spaces left behind, with Raphael Onyedika scoring twice and Paul Onuachu adding another to seal a convincing win for Eric Chelle’s side. Onyango, who could do little to prevent the goals, acknowledged that the Super Eagles made the most of Uganda’s approach.
Reflecting on the game during his post-match media duties, the experienced goalkeeper praised Nigeria’s strength and composure on the night. “We were desperate for goals, and Nigeria punished us,” Onyango said.
He went on to underline the quality within the Nigerian squad, adding, “They are a quality side.”
The result confirmed Nigeria’s progress in the tournament while bringing Uganda’s AFCON campaign to a disappointing close. Attention now turns to the remaining final group matches, with several teams still battling for qualification.
Ivory Coast are set to face Gabon, Mozambique will meet Cameroon, Sudan will play Burkina Faso, while Algeria take on Equatorial Guinea in what promises to be another decisive round of fixtures.
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