Uganda’s Afcon group is taking shape, not in theory but in personnel.
Tunisia, Nigeria and Tanzania have each named their final squads, revealing intentions as much as names.
For the Cranes, who play their final build-up match against Gabon on Wednesday before setting base in Rabat for their first two group matches, preparation now carries sharper edges.
Uganda were the first of the Group C quartet to name their squad and have already signalled intent through early organisation – an 11-day camp in Morocco rather than a late scramble.
Let’s look at what the Cranes are walking into.
Tunisia – structure, balance
Tunisia arrive with familiarity and refinement. Sami Trabelsi has resisted overhaul, choosing continuity with targeted reinforcement. The returns of Ellyes Skhiri and Hannibal Mejbri restore equilibrium to a midfield that prizes control over spectacle.
Defensively, Tunisia remain disciplined and experienced. Ali Maaloul and Yassine Meriah provide leadership, while Montassar Talbi and Dylan Bronn add physical presence. This is a side built to avoid collapse rather than chase chaos.
Uganda’s opening match on December 23 will, therefore, demand patience. Tunisia do not give games away. They suffocate them.
Tunisia squad (28)
Goalkeepers: Dahmen, Ben Saïd, Ben Hassen, Farhati
Defenders: Valery, Ben Ali, Bronn, Talbi, Meriah, Arous, Ghandri, Ben Ouanes, Abdi, Maaloul
Midfielders: Sassi, Skhiri, Tka, Hadj Mahmoud, Gharbi, Hannibal, Sliti, Ben Romdhane
Forwards: Saad, Achouri, Mastouri, Tounekti, Chaouat, Jaziri
Nigeria – depth, danger and expectation
Nigeria’s squad reads like a warning. Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman headline a frontline that few defences relish facing. There is pace, strength and unpredictability across nine forwards.
Eric Chelle’s selection balances firepower with midfield solidity. Ndidi anchors, Iwobi connects, Onyeka presses. At the back, Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi offer physical security.
Uganda face Nigeria last, when scenarios may be complicated and margins thinner. This is a team that overwhelms when confident, but occasionally leaves spaces when rhythm breaks.
Nigeria squad (28)
Goalkeepers: Nwabali, Obasogie, Uzoho
Defenders: Bassey, Ajayi, Osayi-Samuel, Onyemaechi, Awaziem, Sanusi, Ogbu, Alebiosu
Midfielders: Iwobi, Onyeka, Ndidi, Onyedika, Nnadi, Dele-Bashiru, Akinsanmiro, Muhammed
Forwards: Ejuke, Adams, Lookman, Chukwueze, Osimhen, Simon, Onuachu, Dessers, Lawal
Tanzania – belief and regional fire
Tanzania come without fear. Miguel Gamondi has trusted familiarity, leaning heavily on Simba, Young Africans and Azam. Mbwana Samatta’s return brings leadership and finishing.
This is a side built on cohesion rather than stars. Their derby against Uganda on December 27 will be emotional, tight and unpredictable.
Tanzania squad (28)
Goalkeepers: Suleiman, Masalanga, Foba
Defenders: Mwamnyeto, Kapombe, Mwaikenda, Hussein, Kibabage, Mkabule, Nnang, Dismas, Nashon, Msindo, Mnoga, Job
Midfielders/Forwards: Abdulla, Iddi, Allouche, Mombwa, Abraham, Salum, Pipino, Suleiman, Selemani, Samatta, Maguli, Lawi, Msuva
Group C will not forgive indecision. Uganda know exactly what awaits.