Nigeria’s confident stride at AFCON 2025 faces a determined twist as they lock horns with Mozambique in the Round of 16.
The Super Eagles arrive with swagger after grabbing maximum points from their three group outings. However, the Mambas promise to be tricky opponents who arrive with hunger and fearless football. It is a clash painted with history and pride.
Nigeria have enjoyed a familiar home in Fez, and the energy has been relentless and inspiring for the three-time champions. Their perfect group phase sent strong messages across the continent, but knockout football always writes its own poetry.
Mozambique meanwhile know no fear, and they walk into this contest with character and dangerous unpredictability.
AFCON 2025 ROUND OF 16 – FIXTURE TABLE
| Match | Fixture | Venue | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mali vs Tunisia | Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca | Sat, 3 Jan, 20:00 |
| 2 | Morocco vs Tanzania | Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat | Sun, 4 Jan, 17:00 |
| 3 | Algeria vs DR Congo | Moulay Hassan Stadium, Rabat | Tues, 6 Jan, 17:00 |
| 4 | Egypt vs Benin Republic | Stade Adrar, Agadir | Mon, 5 Jan, 17:00 |
| 5 | Senegal vs Sudan | Grand Stade de Tanger, Tangier | Sat, 3 Jan, 17:00 |
| 6 | Nigeria vs Mozambique | Fez Stadium, Fes | Mon, 5 Jan, 20:00 |
| 7 | South Africa vs Cameroon | Agdal Medina Stadium, Rabat | Sun, 4 Jan, 20:00 |
| 8 | Burkina Faso vs Côte d’Ivoire | Stade de Marrakech, Ouahat Sidi Brahim | Tues, 6 Jan, 20:00. |
Relentless Nigeria aim to maintain perfect rhythm as Mambas seek historic upset in Fez
The Super Eagles scored freely, defended with intent, and constantly dictated rhythm as they cleared their group assignments.
Ademola Lookman and Rapahel Onyedika led the scoring with two goals each, while Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Paul Onuachu, and Semi Ajayi are also on the scoresheet in Morocco.
Mozambique stumbled early but responded bravely by defeating Gabon before pushing Cameroon fiercely in a spirited battle.
Nigeria know Mozambique can spring surprises because the Mambas love counterattacks and courageous moments. For that reason, fans should expect intensity when both sides finally collide.
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History
| Date | Fixture | Score | Competition / Context | Venue / City |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 Aug 1999 | Mozambique vs Nigeria | 0–1 | International Friendly | Maputo |
| 29 Mar 2009 | Mozambique vs Nigeria | 0–0 | World Cup Qualifier | Maputo |
| 11 Oct 2009 | Nigeria vs Mozambique | 1–0 | World Cup Qualifier | Abuja |
| 20 Jan 2010 | Mozambique vs Nigeria | 0–3 | Africa Cup of Nations | Lubango, Angola |
| 16 Oct 2023 | Mozambique vs Nigeria | 2–3 | International Friendly | Lisbon |
Venue and occasion
Fez remains Nigeria’s fortress at this tournament, and its atmosphere will once again welcome a Super Eagles fixture. Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm (GMT+1) on Monday, 5th January.
Match prediction
Nigeria arrive as favourites due to their firepower and depth even though Mozambique remain a stubborn and resilient side. Expect pure passion for the Mozambicans who will be seeking to shock the three-time winners. Nigeria should edge the encounter 2-1.
Tags: Super Eagles, #AFCON2025, #Naija4TheWin, #LetsDoItAgain, Mambas, #SoarSuperEagles, Mozambique, AFCON 2025 round of 16, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman.
