Nigeria’s Super Eagles suffered a narrow 2–1 defeat to seven-time African champions Egypt in a pre-Africa Cup of Nations friendly played in Cairo on Tuesday night, as both sides fine-tuned preparations for the tournament in Morocco.

The friendly, staged to sharpen competitive edge ahead of AFCON kick-off, saw Nigeria struggle for cohesion in attack, even though their work rate and commitment were evident throughout the encounter.

Egypt took a deserved lead in the 28th minute when Mahmoud Saber finished from close range after sustained pressure. The Pyramids’ midfielder was perfectly picked out by the lively Ahmed Sayed “Zizo,” whose direct running and creativity caused Nigeria persistent problems down the flanks. Saber arrived unmarked at the back post to tap into an empty net.

Nigeria’s best moments in the first half came more from determination than structure. The Super Eagles were nearly gifted an equaliser when Paul Onuachu’s long ball almost resulted in an own goal by Egyptian defender Yasser Ibrahim, but goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy reacted sharply to prevent the mishap.

That incident appeared to lift Nigeria’s confidence, and the equaliser arrived deep into first-half stoppage time. Zaidu Sanusi swung in a free kick from the left which El Shenawy fumbled at his near post, allowing defender Chidozie Awaziem to react quickest and head home from close range in the 45+3rd minute.

Egypt, however, emerged from the interval with renewed urgency and reclaimed the lead eight minutes after the restart. Once again, Nigeria were undone by Egyptian width and movement as Zizo played a key role in the build-up before Mostafa Mohamed powered a right-footed shot past the Nigerian defence from inside the area in the 53rd minute.

Despite efforts to respond, the Super Eagles were unable to find a second equaliser as Egypt controlled the closing stages and finished the match the stronger side.

The result offers Nigeria valuable lessons ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations opener against Tanzania on Monday, while Egypt will begin their own campaign a day earlier against Zimbabwe.

For the Super Eagles, the Cairo test underlined the need for sharper attacking cohesion as they prepare to chase continental glory in Morocco.

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By Kunle Solaja.

When Nigeria’s Super Eagles face Uganda in their final Group C match of the Africa Cup of Nations, there is a strong possibility they will come up against a familiar name — a Nigerian-born striker leading the Ugandan attack.

Uganda’s offensive options include Uchechukwu Ikpeazu, who is part of the Cranes’ current 30-man squad for the tournament. Ikpeazu plays his club football in Scotland with St Johnstone and could feature prominently when the two sides meet.

Born in England to a Nigerian father and a Ugandan mother, Ikpeazu represents Uganda at the international level after opting to commit his future to the East African nation.

His journey to the Ugandan national team has been a gradual one. Ikpeazu was first called up in March 2020 by then head coach Jonathan McKinstry for two Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches, but those fixtures were postponed due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

An attempt to recall him in April 2022 under McKinstry’s successor, Milutin Sredojevic, did not materialise, as the striker chose to remain in Wales to fight for a place at Cardiff City. However, his international ambitions were revived when he received further call-ups in May 2024 and September 2025.

Ikpeazu went on to make his full international debut for Uganda on September 5, 2025, coming off the bench in a commanding 4–0 victory over Mozambique.

His presence adds an intriguing subplot to the Group C encounter, setting up a personal storyline when a Nigerian-born forward lines up against the Super Eagles in one of the tournament’s most anticipated matches.

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By Kunle Solaja.

As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco on Sunday, Group A immediately presents a compelling mix of pedigree, ambition and contrasting football identities. Hosts Morocco headline a section that also features former champions Zambia, perennial contenders Mali and rising outsiders Comoros, setting the stage for an intriguing opening phase of the tournament.

All Group A matches will be split between Rabat and Casablanca, with the opening fixture seeing Morocco face Comoros at the capital’s stadium on December 21.

Fixtures (Kick-off times GMT)

• Dec 21 (19:00) – Rabat: Morocco v Comoros
• Dec 22 (14:30) – Casablanca: Mali v Zambia
• Dec 26 (12:00) – Rabat: Morocco v Mali
• Dec 26 (14:30) – Casablanca: Comoros v Zambia
• Dec 29 (17:30) – Rabat: Morocco v Zambia
• Dec 29 (17:30) – Casablanca: Comoros v Mali

Morocco: Hosts with Heavy Expectations

Morocco enters AFCON 2025 not only as hosts but also as one of the continent’s strongest teams, ranked 11th in the world as of November 2025. Making their 19th appearance at the finals, the Atlas Lions are chasing a second continental crown to add to their historic triumph in 1976.

Under coach Walid Regragui, Morocco boast a squad rich in European-based stars and tournament experience. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou anchors a side that includes defensive heavyweights Achraf Hakimi, Noussair Mazraoui and Nayef Aguerd, while the midfield and attack feature creative and attacking quality in players such as Sofyan Amrabat, Brahim Diaz, Hakim Ziyech’s successors and prolific forwards Youssef En-Nesyri and Ayoub El Kaabi.

Morocco topped their qualifying group despite already being assured of participation as hosts, reinforcing their status as favourites to dominate Group A.

Mali: Talent-Rich Contenders Still Chasing Glory

Mali return for their 13th AFCON appearance, still seeking a first title, having come closest in 1972 when they finished runners-up. Ranked 54th globally, the Eagles are widely regarded as one of Africa’s most technically gifted sides.

Belgian coach Tom Saintfiet has assembled a powerful squad blending physicality and finesse. The midfield is particularly formidable, featuring Premier League star Yves Bissouma, RB Leipzig’s Amadou Haidara and Al Ahly’s Aliou Dieng. Up front, Moussa El Bilal Touré and emerging European-based forwards offer pace and penetration.

Mali qualified convincingly, finishing top of their group ahead of Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau and Eswatini, and will see Group A as a genuine opportunity to make a deep run.

Zambia: Former Champions Seeking Revival

Zambia, champions in 2012, are making their 18th appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations and will be eager to rekindle memories of their famous triumph. Ranked 90th in the world, the Chipolopolo qualified impressively by finishing above Cote d’Ivoire in their group.

Coached by Moses Sichone, Zambia relies heavily on attacking firepower led by Leicester City striker Patson Daka, supported by Fashion Sakala and a physically strong midfield. Veteran defender Stoppila Sunzu provides leadership at the back, while the squad features a mix of local league standouts and Europe-based professionals.

Zambia’s clash with Mali in Casablanca could prove decisive in shaping the group standings.

Comoros: Fearless Underdogs with Nothing to Lose

Comoros remain the least experienced side in Group A but are no strangers to defying expectations. Making only their second AFCON appearance after debuting in 2021, where they reached the Round of 16, the Islanders arrive with quiet confidence.

Ranked 108th in the world, the Comoros topped a tough qualifying group that included Tunisia, the Gambia, and Madagascar. Italian coach Stefano Cusin has built a disciplined side, largely composed of players from Europe’s lower divisions and emerging leagues.

With attacking threats like Myziane Maolida and Faïz Selemani, Comoros will look to spring surprises, particularly against fellow travellers Mali and Zambia.

Group A Outlook

Group A offers a classic AFCON narrative: a powerful host nation under pressure to deliver, a technically gifted challenger still seeking validation, a former champion chasing revival, and an underdog eager to upset the established order.

As Morocco launches the tournament on home soil, the battles in Rabat and Casablanca promise intensity, intrigue and early clues as to which teams are ready to turn ambition into continental success.

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