Nigeria signed off the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in emphatic fashion with a 3-1 victory over Uganda, a result that sealed a perfect nine points from three matches and highlighted the Super Eagles’ growing momentum at the tournament.
Already through before kick-off, the Super Eagles played with confidence and purpose, refusing to take their foot off the pedal. Paul Onuachu opened the scoring in the 28th minute, rising above his marker to head home after sustained pressure. Uganda pulled one back early in the second half through Salim Magoola, but any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished by Raphael Onyedika. The midfielder struck twice in quick succession, first restoring Nigeria’s two-goal advantage in the 62nd minute before firing in a powerful third five minutes later.
Although Uganda continued to push and were rewarded with a consolation goal from Rogers Mato, Nigeria remained firmly in control to close out the game. The win means the Super Eagles finish top of Group C with nine points, eight goals scored and four conceded. They now await a round of 16 clash against one of the best third-placed teams from Groups A, B or F on January 6.
While the celebrations around Nigeria’s flawless group run continue, former defender Sam Sodje has sounded a strong note of caution. Speaking with The Area Gang on Lasgidi 90.1 FM during the Live coverage of the Super Eagles vs Uganda clash on Tuesday, December 30, Sodje insisted that only proper leadership and planning can stop Nigeria’s latest title push from being derailed.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s failure to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Sodje admitted the disappointment still cuts deep.
“The Super Eagles of Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World still dey pain me and it will pain me for a very long time,” he said.
Sodje argued that elite football nations prepare years ahead for major tournaments, not at the last minute.
“The NFF ought to be prepared two to three years before the tournament. Give people that know tactically the opportunity to lead. We can get it right, when the right people are in position,” he said.
“We have gone back tactically in football. The Amaju Pinnick, and others have taken us back. Untill we get it right, we might not also qualify for the next (2030) World Cup.”
The former centre-back also raised concerns about leadership within the current Super Eagles squad, questioning whether there are enough senior voices to enforce discipline on and off the pitch.
“One of the problems with the team is that we don’t have really really senior players. In our days when we played with senior players like Nwankwo Kanu and Jay-Jay Okocha, fear and shame won’t allow you do some things,” he said.
“Senior players bring organization and discipline. And that is what the Super Eagles are currently lacking.”
Beyond tactics, Sodje stressed that professionalism starts with how players are treated from the moment they arrive for international duty.
“The players might not need the money. But when the players are not respected, they will strike over money,” he noted.
“The respect the players get, from when they are picked up from the airport, the kits are ready, and are respected, will make the players more committed.”
He also singled out goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, urging the coaching crew to address what he described as lapses in discipline, particularly celebrations during matches.
Despite his criticisms, Sodje remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances at Africa Cup of Nations. He believes the Super Eagles have the quality to chase a fourth continental crown, but warned that without decisive action and better organisation at the top, history could yet repeat itself at the worst possible time.
