AFCON: ‘No fear, full belief’ — Obita fires Up Uganda ahead of Nigeria showdown

Uganda Cranes centre-back Jordan Obita has struck a confident tone as the Cranes prepare for a decisive Group C encounter against Nigeria at the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)  in Fes on Tuesday.

Uganda head into the fixture knowing there is little margin for error. Sitting bottom of the group, the Cranes must collect maximum points to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive in Morocco.

Despite the pressure, Obita insists the mood within the camp remains positive following the 1-1 draw with Tanzania, a game Uganda could have won but for Allan Okello’s late missed penalty.

Obita Raring To Go in AFCON Tie

According to the experienced defender, belief within the squad has not wavered. He says the players have taken encouragement from their last outing and are fully focused on correcting the small details ahead of the Nigeria test.

Obita notes that preparations have been intense, with the team clear about what is required. The message, he says, is simple: approach the game with confidence, play without fear, and fight for the win.

Uganda can also draw inspiration from history. The Cranes boast a respectable record against the Super Eagles and famously defeated Nigeria 2-1 in their only previous CAF AFCON meeting back in 1978, a victory that propelled Uganda all the way to the final.

As the game approaches, Obita and the Cranes are banking on belief, unity, and history to fuel a crucial performance against one of Africa’s traditional heavyweights.