Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered another dominant display at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, dispatching Mozambique 4–0 in their Round of 16 showdown in Fès to book a spot in the quarter-finals.
Building on an impressive group-stage campaign where they won all three matches to top Group C, the Eagles took control of the contest early and never looked back. Mozambique, who reached the knockout stage for the first time after finishing as one of the best third-placed teams in Group F, were overwhelmed by Nigeria’s intensity and attacking movement.
The opening goal arrived in the 20th minute as Ademola Lookman finished neatly after being set up by Akor Adams. Five minutes later, Victor Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s advantage, before striking again shortly after halftime. In the 47th minute, Lookman turned provider once more, teeing up Osimhen to make it 3–0.
Akor Adams put the finishing touch on a commanding performance in the 75th minute, scoring Nigeria’s fourth goal to complete the rout.
Wilfred Ndidi anchored the midfield alongside Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi, while Stanley Nwabali returned between the sticks. The defensive unit of Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi remained composed throughout, limiting Mozambique to few opportunities.
Coach Chelle made several changes in the second half, introducing Paul Onuachu and Samuel Chukwueze for Akor Adams and Lookman, while Tom Dele Bashiru and Onyedika replaced Onyeka and Ndidi. Moses Simon also came on for Osimhen as Nigeria comfortably controlled the closing stages.
By the 80th minute, the Super Eagles had registered eight shots on target, with Mozambique unable to seriously threaten Nwabali.
The emphatic victory keeps Nigeria’s title push firmly alive as they chase a fourth AFCON crown. Their next test will come against either Algeria or Congo DR in the quarter-finals.
