Nigeria Takes on Mozambique in Crucial Afcon 2025 Round of 16 Clash

January 5, 2026

Nigeria and Mozambique will meet in the Round of 16 of the Afcon 2025 at the Complexe Sportif de Fès stadium on Monday. This knockout match is very important because the losing team will be eliminated from the tournament.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria topped Group C, winning all three of their matches to secure nine points and a place in the knockout stage. Mozambique, known as the Mambas, advanced as one of the best losers from Group F with three points.

Nigeria hopes to continue its strong form and qualify for the quarter-finals, while Mozambique is ready to challenge the three-time African champions with hopes of causing an upset.

Historically, Nigeria and Mozambique have faced each other five times in all competitions. Nigeria has won four of these matches, while Mozambique has not recorded a victory and has managed only two draws. This history gives the Super Eagles a psychological advantage going into the game.

Mozambique’s head coach, Chiquinho Conde, spoke about facing Nigeria, acknowledging their strength while emphasizing his team’s preparation. “Nigeria is a big name in African football, but we are ready to face them. We will show respect, but we will play without fear,” Conde said. He added that facing strong teams is part of their experience, and they are determined to give their best.

Nigeria’s coach, Eric Chelle, admitted to the pressure of this knockout match. “Since I started this job, I have felt a lot of pressure. This is not just about the NFF; it’s about the team, the officials, and me. We are focused on the game against Mozambique, and we definitely want to win,” he stated. Chelle also made it clear that he is not concerned with comparisons to Nigeria’s poor performance in the 2021 edition.

Both teams are expected to put on a competitive and exciting match for fans. Nigeria looks to maintain their unbeaten streak in the tournament, while Mozambique hopes to make history by defeating one of Africa’s strongest teams.

With strategies, preparation, and determination in play, this Round of 16 encounter promises intensity, high stakes, and a thrilling experience for football fans watching across the continent.