Nigeria have arrived in the AFCON knockout stage with intent, firepower and unfinished business. As the tournament’s most potent attacking side so far, the Super Eagles have laid down an early marker as genuine title contenders in Morocco. But beneath the goals and glamour lies one lingering concern a defence that still leaks chances.
Still, momentum is firmly on Nigeria’s side.
The Super Eagles have moved swiftly from the heartbreak of missing out on the FIFA World Cup, roaring back to life with a star studded squad featuring Ademola Lookman, Raphael Onyedika, Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi. Their dominance in the group stage has been emphatic, ruthless and at times overwhelming.
Now comes Mozambique.
For the first time in their AFCON history, the Mambas have reached the knockout rounds. Ranked 102nd in the world, they face a daunting test against a Nigerian side ranked 74 places above them and playing some of the tournament’s most exhilarating football.
How Nigeria Reached the Round of 16
Nigeria cruised into the knockouts as Group C winners, brushing aside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania to become the first team at AFCON to qualify with a 100 percent group-stage record. Three games. Three wins. Eight goals. No hesitation.
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It was a statement run that underlined their attacking depth and tactical flexibility, even if defensive lapses occasionally surfaced.
How Mozambique Reached the Round of 16
Mozambique advanced as one of the four best third placed teams, despite losing two of their three Group F matches. Their lone victory, a historic win over Gabon, ended a 40 year wait for an AFCON victory and propelled them into the knockouts for the first time ever.
For the Mambas, this is uncharted territory. For Nigeria, it is familiar ground.
Who Awaits in the Quarterfinals
The winner of Nigeria vs Mozambique will head to Marrakesh to face the winner of Algeria vs DR Congo in the quarterfinal on January 10.
Nigeria’s Players to Watch
Ademola Lookman has been nothing short of electric. With two goals and two assists, the 28 year old has emerged as Nigeria’s creative engine, dictating games as both a finisher and playmaker. Rested for the final group match, he is expected to return at full throttle.
Raphael Onyedika announced himself with a brace in the last group game, while Alex Iwobi has quietly controlled the tempo from midfield. And then there is Victor Osimhen one of the most feared strikers in African football, whose presence alone alters defensive plans.
Nigeria finished the group stage with the highest goal tally (8) and the highest average possession rate (66 percent) in the tournament.
Mozambique’s Key Threats
Winger Geny Catamo has been Mozambique’s standout performer, scoring two of their four goals at the tournament. Forward Faisal Bangal and right back Diogo Calila have also found the net, highlighting Mozambique’s willingness to attack despite defensive vulnerabilities.
That risk comes at a cost.
Mozambique have never kept a clean sheet in AFCON history, conceding in all 18 of their tournament matches.
Key Numbers That Tell the Story
Nigeria have won all three group games for the first time since 2021
Mozambique’s win over Gabon is their only victory in 18 AFCON matches
Nigeria have scored more goals than any other team so far
Mozambique have conceded in every AFCON game they have ever played
Head to Head History
Nigeria and Mozambique have met five times across competitive and friendly fixtures. The Super Eagles dominate the record with four wins and one draw, underlining the gulf in pedigree between both sides.
For Mozambique, this is about history, belief and survival.
For Nigeria, it is about authority, redemption and momentum.
The Super Eagles have the firepower. The question now is whether they can tighten the back door and turn dominance into destiny.
