Nigerian-born Ikpeazu saves Uganda, sets up decisive showdown with Super Eagles

Ugbede James Ankpa

Nigerian heritage took centre stage in Group C of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday as Nigerian-born striker Uche Ikpeazu struck late to earn Uganda a 1–1 draw against Tanzania — a result that has now thrown Nigeria firmly into the qualification picture.
Ikpeazu, born to a Nigerian father and a Ugandan mother, came off the bench to head home the equaliser and secure the Cranes’ first point of the tournament in Morocco.

The outcome leaves both Uganda and Tanzania requiring victories on the final matchday, with Uganda preparing for a decisive encounter against Nigeria.
The result also extended Tanzania’s winless run. The Taifa Stars had appeared on course for a vital victory after Simon Msuva converted a penalty 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, who was making his first start of the tournament.
Uganda, however, refused to surrender. Playing with increased urgency as heavy rain began to fall, the Cranes pressed 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 closing moments nearly swung the contest fully in Uganda’s favour. Substitute James Bogere was brought down in the penalty area, earning a second spot kick, but Allan Okello blazed his effort over the crossbar, much to Tanzania’s relief, ensuring the points were shared. Tanzania almost snatched a late winner moments later, but Onyango’s scare ended with the final effort drifting narrowly wide.
For Nigeria, the draw raises the stakes considerably. With Uganda buoyed by Ikpeazu’s impact and Tanzania still in contention, Group C remains wide open. The Super Eagles will face Uganda in a must-win clash on Tuesday, knowing that victory would not only secure qualification but also extinguish the hopes of a side inspired by a striker with Nigerian roots.
Tanzania, meanwhile, must defeat Tunisia to keep their own Round of 16 ambitions alive, setting up a tense final day in a group where Nigerian influence has already proven decisive.