Uganda Vs. Tunisia preview
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations continues with tough opening round of fixtures in Group C as the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia take on the Uganda Cranes at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.
For Tunisia, this tournament is a mission of redemption following their shock group-stage exit in the previous edition, while Uganda marks a triumphant return to the continental stage for the first time since 2019. The group dynamics suggest a two-horse race for the top spot between Tunisia and Nigeria, making this opening fixture critical for both sides to avoid an early setback in a pool that also includes a dangerous Tanzania.
Tunisia’s squad selection under Sami Trabelsi emphasizes a “spine of experience” designed to handle the pressure of tournament football. The headline news is the return of veteran left-back Ali Maaloul and the inclusion of Manchester United academy graduate Hannibal Mejbri, alongside midfield stalwart Ellyes Skhiri. However, the Eagles are sweating over the fitness of winger Naïm Sliti, whose recurring injury has made him a major doubt for the opener. Uganda, led by Belgian tactician Paul Put, counters with a blend of youthful exuberance and proven leadership. The return of legendary goalkeeper Denis Onyango provides much-needed stability, while the attack will be spearheaded by the prolific Mato Rogers, who arrives in Morocco having scored 15 goals in 17 matches for FK Vardar this season.
Tactically, the match is expected to be a clash between North African technical precision and East African physical intensity. Sami Trabelsi’s Tunisia will likely favor a controlled 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, looking to use the creative vision of Hannibal and Ferjani Sassi to unlock a stubborn defense. Their approach hinges on high-percentage passing and utilizing Ali Maaloul’s delivery from wide areas. Paul Put’s Uganda, however, is built for the transition. The Cranes are expected to sit in a compact defensive shape, relying on the industry of Khalid Aucho in midfield to disrupt Tunisia’s rhythm and launch rapid counter-attacks through the pace of Allan Okello and Travis Mutyaba—the latter of whom conveniently plays his club football in Tunisia for CS Sfaxien.
The pre-match atmosphere has been a mix of strategic caution and internal drama. In his press conference, Sami Trabelsi warned his team against complacency, citing Comoros’ strong performance against Morocco as proof that “the gap between big and small teams has vanished.” He stressed that Tunisia must be mentally prepared for a “surprise” from Uganda. Meanwhile, Paul Put expressed immense pride in Uganda’s progress but acknowledged the difficulty of the task, stating that his players must have a “determination that outweighs the fear of losing.” However, Uganda’s preparations have been slightly overshadowed by reports of a brief training boycott over unpaid bonuses, a distraction the technical staff is working hard to put behind them before kickoff.
The predicted starting lineups highlight the tactical battle ahead. Tunisia is expected to field Aymen Dahmen in goal, with a back four of Yan Valery, Montassar Talbi, Dylan Bronn, and Ali Maaloul. The midfield trio of Skhiri, Sassi, and Hannibal will look to feed an attacking line featuring Elias Saad, Seifeddine Jaziri, and potentially Ismaël Gharbi if Sliti is unavailable. Uganda’s projected XI sees Denis Onyango between the posts, protected by Toby Sibbick, Elio Capradossi, and Aziz Kayondo. The midfield will likely be anchored by Bobosi Byaruhanga and Khalid Aucho, supporting a dynamic frontline of Rogers Mato, Allan Okello, and the young sensation Travis Mutyaba.
