By Victor Okoye
Nigeria’s pedigree and title ambition will be put to the test by Mozambique’s hunger and belief when the sides clash in the Round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Fès, Morocco.
The Super Eagles’ quest for a fourth AFCON title enters the knockout phase with a daunting clash against debutants, Mozambique’s Mambas as both sides chase a place in the quarter-finals at the Stade de Fès on Monday.
It is only the second AFCON meeting between the teams, with Nigeria winning the first 3–0 in the 2010 group stage.
Peter Odemwingie scored twice within minutes on either side of halftime, while Obafemi Martins sealed the win late in Port Elizabeth.
Overall, the Super Eagles dominate the head-to-head, unbeaten in five meetings, recording four wins and one draw across competitive and friendly matches.
Their most recent clash came in October 2023, when Nigeria edged a thrilling 3–2 friendly in Albufeira, Portugal.
Terem Moffi, Frank Onyeka and Moses Simon scored for Nigeria, while Geny Catamo and Faisal replied for Mozambique.
Nigeria arrive in Fès buoyed by a flawless group campaign, winning all three matches for the first time since 2021.
Victories over Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda yielded nine points, eight goals scored and reaffirmed their attacking depth.
The Super Eagles scored at least twice in every group match, a first for them at AFCON, underlining their growing offensive confidence.
Their 61st AFCON win against Uganda placed Nigeria second on the all-time list, behind only record holders Egypt.
However, defensive solidity remains a concern, with Nigeria conceding in their last five AFCON matches.
Another goal conceded would see them join an unwanted list of teams to have allowed 100 goals at AFCON finals.
Coach Eric Sékou Chelle insists his players understand the shift required in knockout football.
“Group success counts for nothing now,” Chelle said. “In the knockouts, efficiency and discipline matter more than style.”
The French tactician has drilled pragmatism into his squad, warning against underestimating Mozambique’s hunger.
“We respect Mozambique,” Chelle added. “They have nothing to lose and everything to gain. We must be mentally ready.”
Chelle remains unbeaten in regulation time across 13 competitive matches as Nigeria coach, highlighting stability under his leadership.
He credited teamwork after being named Coach of the Group Phase at the tournament.
“This award belongs to my staff and players,” Chelle said. “But our focus is the trophy, not individual recognition.”
Training in Fès has been intense, with 25 players involved, as Nigeria prepare to switch into knockout mode.
Defender Ryan Alebiosu remains sidelined with injury, while Cyriel Dessers has returned to his club due to a thigh problem.
Midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi missed training through illness, but the camp atmosphere remains upbeat.
Prompt payment of salaries and bonuses by the National Sports Commission has lifted morale within the Nigerian camp.
Sources confirmed Chelle earned match bonuses for three group wins, contributing to harmony and focus off the pitch.
Mozambique, meanwhile, are writing history by reaching the AFCON knockout stages for the first time.
The Mambas finished third in their group, securing their maiden AFCON finals victory against Gabon.
In spite of losing 2–1 to Cameroon after leading, Mozambique showed resilience and attacking intent.
They have never kept a clean sheet at AFCON, conceding in all 18 matches played at the tournament.
Yet, they arrive with belief, having scored in back-to-back AFCON matches for the first time.
Geny Catamo has emerged as their talisman, becoming the first Mozambican to score in successive AFCON games.
Coach Chiquinho Conde remains defiant ahead of the daunting challenge against Nigeria.
“We respect Nigeria’s history,” Conde said. “But football is played on the pitch, not on paper.”
The Mozambican coach believes his side can shock Africa.
“We have already broken barriers,” Conde added. “Now we want to break one more.”
Extra motivation has come from President Daniel Chapo, who announced a special bonus for an upset victory.
Each player and official stands to earn 500,000 meticais (about N11.3 million) should Mozambique eliminate Nigeria and reach the quarter-finals.
President Chapo described the team’s journey as unprecedented, praising their courage and national pride.
For Nigeria, progression would mean a 12th quarter-final appearance and another step toward continental glory.
For Mozambique, victory would redefine their football history and announce them as AFCON’s newest giant-killers.
When the whistle blows in Fès, pedigree will meet possibility, with Africa watching to see whether experience or ambition will prevail.
-Victor Okoye writes for the News Agency of Nigeria
