Nigerian heritage took centre stage in Group C of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday as Nigerian-born Uche Ikpeazu struck late to earn Uganda a 1–1 draw against Tanzania, a result that now puts Nigeria firmly in the qualification equation.
Ikpeazu, born to a Nigerian father and Ugandan mother, came off the bench to head home the equaliser and hand the Cranes their first point of the tournament in Morocco. The outcome leaves both Uganda and Tanzania needing victories on the final day, with the Cranes set for a decisive showdown against Nigeria.
It also means that the winless streak of Tanzania continues. They had looked on course for a crucial win after Simon Msuva converted from the penalty spot shortly after the hour mark. The spot kick was awarded following a handball by Uganda midfielder Baba Alhassan, and Msuva sent his effort into the top corner beyond veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango, making his first start of the tournament.
Uganda, however, refused to fold. Playing with urgency as heavy rain began to fall, the Cranes pushed forward and were rewarded when Ikpeazu rose highest to meet a Denis Omedi cross, powering a header past Tanzania goalkeeper Zuberi Foba to restore parity.
The dramatic finale could have tilted fully in Uganda’s favour. Substitute James Bogere was dragged down in the box, earning a second penalty, but Allan Okello blazed his kick over the bar, sparing Tanzania and ensuring the spoils were shared. Tanzania nearly snatched a winner moments later, but Onyango’s scare ended with the final shot drifting just wide.
For Nigeria, the draw sharpens the stakes. With Uganda now buoyed by Ikpeazu’s impact and Tanzania still alive, Group C remains wide open. The Super Eagles will face Uganda in a must-win encounter on Tuesday, knowing that a victory would not only settle qualification matters but also end the hopes of a side inspired by a striker with Nigerian roots.
Tanzania, meanwhile, must overcome Tunisia to keep their own Round of 16 ambitions alive, setting up a tense final day in a group where Nigerian influence has already left a decisive mark.
