The Super Eagles of Nigeria will lock horns with Mozambique on Monday night in a crucial Round of 16 encounter at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set for the Complexe Sportif de Fès.
Nigeria, finalists at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, have made an impressive start to their quest for a fourth AFCON title and a first since 2013. Eric Chelle’s side joined Algeria as the only teams to record a perfect three wins from three in the group stage.
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Road to Knockout Stage
Progress through Group C was not without its challenges. The Super Eagles opened their campaign with a 2–1 victory over Tanzania before edging Tunisia 3–2 in a dramatic contest that threatened to unravel after Nigeria surged into a 3–0 lead.
With qualification already assured, Chelle rang the changes in the final group game, making eight alterations as Nigeria cruised past 10-man Uganda 3–1 to seal top spot with nine points.
Mozambique, meanwhile, advanced as one of the best third-placed teams after finishing third in Group F with three points. Their passage to the last 16 was sealed by a memorable 3–2 win over Gabon, their first AFCON victory in 40 years, marking a historic breakthrough into the knockout rounds.
Team News
Chelle has assembled a balanced squad blending experience with youthful energy. Ademola Lookman has been influential, contributing two goals and two assists, while Raphael Onyedika struck twice in the final group game. Alex Iwobi has provided composure and control in midfield.
Victor Osimhen leads the attack, with Nigeria scoring eight goals in three matches, their best-ever group-stage return at AFCON.
Mozambique coach Chiquinho Conde will take encouragement from his side’s historic group-stage showing.
Tactical Outlook
Mozambique are expected to adopt a compact, disciplined approach, focusing on defensive organisation and quick transitions. Counter-attacks and set pieces will be central to their strategy, with Catamo’s pace their most potent weapon.
Nigeria will look to dominate possession, press high, and use their attacking depth to stretch the Mambas across the pitch.
Prediction
As three-time champions and group-stage pacesetters, Nigeria head into the tie as clear favourites. Mozambique’s resilience and historic momentum may pose questions, but the Super Eagles’ quality, depth, and firepower should prove decisive.
Verdict: Nigeria to win and progress to the quarter-finals, where they will face either Algeria or DR Congo on January 10.
Kick-off Time
Date: Monday, January 5, 2026
Venue: Complexe Sportif de Fès
Kick-off: 8:00pm Nigeria time
