AFCON 2025: Uganda’s Melvyn Lorenzen Warns Nigeria, Tunisia Ahead of Group C Battles

Uganda striker Melvyn Lorenzen has sent a strong message to Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that the Cranes will not be pushovers in Group C.

Uganda, drawn alongside the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Tunisia, and regional rivals Tanzania, will begin their AFCON campaign next Tuesday against the North Africans. Paul Put’s side will then face Tanzania before rounding off the group stage with a clash against Nigeria.

Despite Nigeria’s status as runners-up at the last AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire and Tunisia’s pedigree as former champions, Lorenzen believes Uganda have what it takes to make life uncomfortable for the favourites.

“Even against the big nations, it’s always a good result. We’ve never gone under; we’ve always shown ourselves in a good light,” Lorenzen told the Uganda Football Association’s official website.
“So, I think any team that comes won’t be comfortable playing us. It’s time to prove that again.”

Opinion: A Group Where No One Can Relax

Lorenzen’s comments reflect a growing confidence within the Ugandan camp and serve as a timely reminder that AFCON is rarely predictable. While Nigeria and Tunisia may walk into Group C as favourites on paper, tournaments like this are often decided by hunger, discipline, and belief—qualities Uganda are clearly embracing.

For the Super Eagles, this warning should be taken seriously. Underestimating so-called “underdogs” has cost big teams dearly in past editions of the AFCON. Uganda’s determination to prove themselves could turn Group C into one of the most competitive and entertaining groups of the tournament.

In truth, this is what makes AFCON special: no easy games, no guaranteed wins, and every team fighting to write its own story. If Uganda back up Lorenzen’s words on the pitch, Group C could deliver major surprises—and force the favourites to earn every point the hard way.