AFCON 2025: Things to know as Nigeria take Mozambique

The Super Eagles of Nigeria take on Mozambique in a Round of 16 showdown at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with the Super Eagles’ formidable attack aiming to keep their title ambitions on track.

Nigeria’s AFCON Journey So Far

Nigeria have impressed in Morocco, combining flair and attacking quality to establish themselves as one of the tournament favourites. The Super Eagles topped Group C with a perfect record, defeating Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania, becoming the first team to reach the knockout stage with maximum points.

Boasting the competition’s most potent attack, Nigeria have scored eight goals, the highest tally in the group stage, while also recording the best average possession rate at 66 percent. However, defensive lapses remain an area of concern as the tournament progresses.

Still riding momentum after recovering from the disappointment of missing out on the FIFA World Cup, the Super Eagles have been inspired by a talented squad featuring Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi and Raphael Onyedika.

Mozambique’s Historic Breakthrough

Mozambique have already made history by reaching the AFCON knockout stages for the first time. The Mambas progressed as one of the four best third-placed teams, despite losing two matches in Group F and securing a crucial win against Gabon.

That victory ended a 40-year wait for an AFCON win and earned Mozambique a place in the Round of 16. Ranked 102nd in the world, they now face a daunting test against Nigeria, who sit 74 places higher in the FIFA rankings.

Key Players to Watch

Nigeria

Ademola Lookman: Two goals and two assists so far; a driving force in Nigeria’s attack.

Raphael Onyedika: Scored twice in the final group game and adds energy from midfield.

Alex Iwobi: The creative hub in midfield.

Victor Osimhen: One of the tournament’s most feared strikers.

Mozambique

Geny Catamo: Scored two of the team’s four goals and has been vital on the wing.

Faisal Bangal: Offers attacking threat up front.

Diogo Calila: The right-back has chipped in with an important goal.

Read Also:AFCON 2025: Mozambique hit by injury blow ahead of Nigeria clash

Form Guide

Nigeria: W-W-W-L-L

Mozambique: L-W-L-L-D

Nigeria have won all three group matches for the first time since 2021, while Mozambique’s win over Gabon remains their only victory in **18 AFCON matches**. The Mambas are also yet to keep a clean sheet at the tournament, having conceded in every game.

What’s Next?

The winner of the Nigeria vs Mozambique encounter will advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of Algeria vs DR Congo in Marrakesh on January 10.

With history on the line for Mozambique and silverware firmly in Nigeria’s sights, a compelling knockout contest awaits in Fez.

Match details

Fixture: Nigeria vs Mozambique

Competition: CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025

Venue: Fez Stadium, Fez, Morocco

Date: Monday, January 5, 2026

Kick-off: 8pm Nigeria time

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