Uganda forward Ikpeazu finds joy in ‘special’ AFCON moment

Uganda forward Uche Ikpeazu announced his arrival at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a crucial equaliser against Tanzania, rescuing a 1-1 draw in Group C at the Stade Al Medina in Rabat.

80’𝐆𝐎𝐀𝐋🇺🇬⚽️| Uganda 🇺🇬1-1 🇹🇿Tanzania

Uche Ikpeazu strikes — Uganda Cranes level the score!#UBCAFCON25 #TotalEnergiesAFCON2026 #TECNOAI #TECNOAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/rkhBzjcmOm

— UBC UGANDA (@ubctvuganda) December 27, 2025

With Uganda trailing late in the contest, the St Johnstone striker rose highest in the 80th minute to power home a brilliant diving header, connecting perfectly with Denis Omedi’s teasing delivery from the right flank. It was his first goal of the tournament and only his second in Uganda Cranes colours.

Tanzania had taken the lead shortly after the hour mark when Simon Msuva converted from the penalty spot, placing the Cranes under pressure in a must-win encounter. Despite the setback, Uganda remained composed and continued to push forward in search of a response.

Ikpeazu later reflected on the significance of the moment, describing the goal as one of the most special of his career, having come on the grand stage of Africa’s biggest football tournament.

Uganda almost completed a dramatic turnaround in the dying minutes, but Allan Okello sent his penalty over the bar after teenager James Bogere had been brought down in the box.

The draw leaves the Cranes with one point from two matches, following their 3-1 defeat to Tunisia in the opening game. Attention now turns to a daunting final Group C fixture against Nigeria, who have already sealed qualification to the knockout stages with maximum points.

Ikpeazu believes only a united effort will give Uganda a chance against the Super Eagles when the sides meet in Fez on Tuesday, stressing the importance of collective commitment in pursuit of a positive result.

Nigeria top the group with six points after edging Tunisia 3-2, while Tunisia and Tanzania will face off in the other decisive group encounter.