Nigeria's Super Eagles confront Mozambique in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Round of 16 on January 5, 2026, at Complexe Sportif de Fès, with coach Eric Chelle warning his squad cannot afford complacency despite their perfect group stage.
After topping Group C undefeated, the three-time champions eye a quarter-final berth against the Mambas, who scraped through as Group F third-placers via a shock win over Gabon. Chelle stressed the knockout pressure: "We are under pressure to beat Mozambique," citing Nigeria's historical edge four wins in five prior meetings, including a 3-0 AFCON 2010 rout but urging focus to avoid upsets like their 2021 last-16 exit.
Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman lead Nigeria's attack, fresh off group triumphs, while Mozambique's defensive grit tested Côte d'Ivoire and Cameroon. Kickoff at 8pm WAT broadcasts nationwide, with captain Wilfred Ndidi preaching game-by-game mindset amid fan expectations for a fourth title.
Nigerians rally online, blending optimism with cautionary tales.
- "Super Eagles no fit dull o! Mozambique go fight dirty 😂" – X users hyping the clash.afrik-foot
- "Perfect group, now deliver or go home pressure on!" – Echoing Chelle's urgency.tvcnews
- "96 spirit loading; Osimhen go carry us" – Nostalgic calls for glory. Excitement peaks as Morocco 2025 knockout fever grips the nation. legit