Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

AFCON 2025: Nigeria’s Group opponent Uganda to miss top midfielder

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Uganda’s Cranes have been handed a major blow ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with midfielder Bevis Mugabi set to miss the tournament due to injury, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Mugabi, who plays for Carlisle United, is currently sidelined and has not featured in recent matches as he continues his recovery process.

Carlisle United head coach Mark Hughes confirmed that the midfielder is still working his way back to full fitness.

“Bevis is obviously coming back from an injury… he hasn’t had any game time. Hopefully, if he doesn’t have any setbacks, he’ll be available very soon,” Hughes said.

However, with the tournament fast approaching, Uganda’s technical crew is unlikely to take the risk of including the midfielder in their final squad, effectively ruling him out of the competition.

Uganda has been drawn in a tough group alongside Nigeria, Tunisia, and Tanzania, and the absence of Mugabi is expected to weaken their midfield options as they prepare for the continental showpiece.

The Cranes will now look to alternative options as they continue their preparations for the AFCON 2025 finals in Morocco.