Uche Ikpeazu’s international allegiance has long been a subject of debate, but the Uganda Cranes striker has now spoken candidly about the path that led him to don the red, black and yellow instead of the green of Nigeria.
Born in London to a Nigerian father and an Ugandan mother, Ikpeazu had the rare privilege of choice. England, Nigeria and Uganda were all options on the table during different stages of his career. Yet, as the 30-year-old explains, the decision eventually became clear.
The St Johnstone forward was first called up by Uganda in 2020, though his long-awaited debut did not arrive until September 2025. That moment finally came in emphatic fashion, as he featured off the bench in a commanding 4-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Mozambique.
Reflecting to Footy-Africa on why Nigeria did not materialise despite early talk, Ikpeazu was refreshingly honest:
“When they’ve got strikers like Osimhen in your position I think it’s pretty obvious. I enjoy playing for Uganda. Obviously, there were earlier shouts in my career about Nigeria and stuff like that.”
Rather than dwelling on missed opportunities elsewhere, Ikpeazu has embraced his role with the Cranes. His recent performances underline that commitment. Against Tanzania in Uganda’s previous Group C fixture at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the powerful striker rose to the occasion, scoring a crucial equaliser in a 1-1 draw that kept Uganda’s knockout-stage ambitions alive.
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Now, fate has set up an emotionally charged finale. Uganda face Nigeria on Tuesday evening at the Fez Stadium, with Ikpeazu set to come up against his father’s country for the very first time. For the Cranes, the equation is simple: only a win will secure passage to the round of 16.
For Ikpeazu, the occasion carries deeper meaning, but his focus remains firmly on the present.
“But I think God’s time is the best you know and obviously I’m here playing for Uganda and it’s my country as well. I enjoy playing for Uganda,” he explained.
As Uganda prepare for their toughest test of the group, Ikpeazu’s story adds an extra layer of intrigue. Facing a nation he could have represented, the striker now has the chance to play a decisive role for the one he proudly calls his own.
