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Nigeria vs Mozambique AFCON 2025 delivered a commanding performance from the Super Eagles, as Nigeria secured a 4-0 victory over Mozambique to book a place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The Round of 16 encounter, played at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco, showcased Nigeria’s attacking depth, tactical discipline, and renewed defensive solidity at a critical stage of the tournament.
The emphatic win confirmed Nigeria as one of the standout teams in the knockout phase, with Victor Osimhen scoring twice, while Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams added a goal each. The result also marked Nigeria’s first clean sheet in four matches at the competition, underlining a balanced display at both ends of the pitch.
Ejes Gist News reports that the Super Eagles’ victory sets up a highly anticipated quarterfinal clash against either Algeria or the Democratic Republic of Congo, depending on the outcome of the corresponding Round of 16 fixture.
Nigeria vs Mozambique AFCON 2025: Match Overview
Key Match Details
- Fixture: Nigeria vs Mozambique
- Competition: 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)
- Stage: Round of 16
- Venue: Complexe Sportif de Fès, Morocco
- Final Score: Nigeria 4-0 Mozambique
- Kick-off Time: 8:00 pm local time
Nigeria entered the match as three-time African champions with a clear objective of asserting control early, while Mozambique aimed to frustrate and counter. The Super Eagles achieved their objective decisively, dominating possession, territory, and goal-scoring opportunities.
Also Read: Cameroon Defeat South Africa 2-1 to Reach AFCON 2025 Quarterfinals Against Morocco
First-Half Dominance Sets the Tone
Nigeria Take Early Control
From kick-off, Nigeria imposed themselves with high pressing and quick ball circulation. The midfield trio controlled the tempo, allowing the wide attackers to stretch Mozambique’s defensive shape. Early pressure forced Mozambique into a compact defensive block, limiting their ability to build from the back.
Nigeria’s attacking intent was evident within the opening ten minutes, as sustained pressure pinned Mozambique deep in their half. The Super Eagles’ approach combined structured build-up play with rapid transitions, keeping the Mozambican defence under constant strain.
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Ademola Lookman Opens the Scoring
Nigeria’s dominance paid off in the 20th minute when Ademola Lookman broke the deadlock. The winger capitalised on Nigeria’s sustained pressure, finishing confidently to give the Super Eagles a deserved lead. The goal reflected Nigeria’s superior movement and coordination in the final third.
Lookman’s opener was his latest decisive contribution in a tournament where he has consistently influenced games through goals and assists. His positioning between Mozambique’s defensive lines proved difficult to contain.
Osimhen Doubles the Advantage
Five minutes after the opening goal, Victor Osimhen extended Nigeria’s lead with a composed finish. The striker’s movement unsettled the Mozambican backline, as he converted from close range following another period of sustained pressure.
The second goal further tilted the balance in Nigeria’s favour, forcing Mozambique to chase the game while leaving gaps at the back. Osimhen’s presence in the box added a physical dimension that Mozambique struggled to manage.
Mozambique Struggle to Respond
Despite their efforts to regroup, Mozambique found it difficult to cope with Nigeria’s intensity. The Super Eagles continued to dominate possession and dictate the pace of the game. Mozambique’s attempts to push forward were often halted by Nigeria’s organised defensive structure and disciplined midfield positioning.
By half-time, Nigeria held a 2-0 advantage, reflecting their control of proceedings and clinical finishing.
Second Half: Nigeria Turn Control into a Rout
Osimhen Strikes Again After the Break
Nigeria resumed the second half with renewed purpose. Just two minutes after the restart, Osimhen struck again to make it 3-0. The forward tapped home from close range after latching onto a well-weighted squared pass from Lookman, who had dribbled into the box from the left.
The goal highlighted the effective partnership between Nigeria’s attackers and marked Osimhen’s second of the match. It also underlined Lookman’s creative influence, as he continued to torment the Mozambican defence.
Tactical Discipline Maintains Control
With a three-goal cushion, Nigeria managed the game intelligently. The Super Eagles maintained compact defensive lines while continuing to threaten on the counter-attack. Mozambique, facing an uphill task, struggled to find a way back into the contest.
Nigeria’s midfield ensured control of possession, preventing Mozambique from building momentum. The defensive unit, which had come under scrutiny earlier in the tournament, delivered a composed and error-free performance.
Osimhen Substituted Amid Standing Ovation
In the 73rd minute, Nigeria made a tactical substitution as Osimhen was withdrawn after his two-goal display. The striker, who had been visibly eager for a hat-trick, made way for Moses Simon.
The substitution allowed Nigeria to manage Osimhen’s workload while maintaining attacking options. Simon’s introduction added pace and creativity on the left flank.
Akor Adams Completes the Scoring
Nigeria’s dominance was capped in the 75th minute when Akor Adams scored the fourth goal of the night. The striker beat his marker and fired a powerful shot into the roof of the net, registering Nigeria’s fourth goal and sealing a comprehensive victory.
The move leading to the goal involved Ademola Lookman, who recorded yet another assist, while substitute Moses Simon initiated the attack from the left. Adams’ goal was his third for the Super Eagles in the tournament, underlining Nigeria’s depth in attack.
Full-Time: Nigeria 4-0 Mozambique
The final whistle confirmed a resounding 4-0 win for Nigeria, sending the Super Eagles into the AFCON 2025 quarterfinals in emphatic fashion. The performance combined attacking flair, tactical organisation, and defensive solidity.
For Mozambique, the defeat marked the end of their tournament, as they were unable to match Nigeria’s intensity or quality across the pitch.
Statistical Highlights from Nigeria vs Mozambique AFCON 2025
- Goals Scored: Nigeria 4, Mozambique 0
- First-Half Goals: Lookman (20’), Osimhen (25’)
- Second-Half Goals: Osimhen (47’), Akor Adams (75’)
- Clean Sheet: Nigeria’s first in four matches at AFCON 2025
- Multiple Goal Scorers: Osimhen (2 goals)
- Key Contributor: Ademola Lookman (goal and multiple assists)
These figures underline Nigeria’s efficiency in front of goal and their improved defensive organisation.
Nigeria’s Tactical Approach Explained
High Press and Quick Transitions
Nigeria’s approach was built on a high press that disrupted Mozambique’s attempts to play out from the back. The Super Eagles forced turnovers in advanced areas, creating scoring opportunities through quick transitions.
Wing Play and Overloads
The wide areas were central to Nigeria’s success. Lookman and Simon stretched the defence, creating overloads and opening space for central runners like Osimhen and Adams.
Midfield Control
Nigeria’s midfield maintained positional discipline, ensuring control of possession and preventing Mozambique from gaining rhythm. This balance allowed the attacking players to operate with freedom while maintaining defensive stability.
Individual Performances That Defined the Match
Victor Osimhen
Osimhen’s two goals were a testament to his instinctive positioning and composure in front of goal. His physical presence troubled Mozambique throughout the match and added a focal point to Nigeria’s attack.
Ademola Lookman
Lookman delivered a standout performance, scoring once and providing key assists. His dribbling, vision, and decision-making were instrumental in breaking down Mozambique’s defence.
Akor Adams
Adams’ goal off the bench highlighted Nigeria’s attacking depth. His ability to capitalise on opportunities reinforces the Super Eagles’ strength beyond their starting lineup.
Nigeria’s Defence
The clean sheet was a significant achievement, reflecting improved organisation and communication at the back. The defenders limited Mozambique to few clear chances and maintained focus throughout the match.
What the Win Means for Nigeria
Quarterfinal Qualification Confirmed
Nigeria’s victory secures a place in the AFCON 2025 quarterfinals, keeping their title ambitions firmly on track. The Super Eagles will now prepare to face either Algeria or DR Congo in the next round.
Momentum at a Crucial Stage
A dominant knockout victory provides momentum and confidence. The blend of attacking efficiency and defensive discipline positions Nigeria as a serious contender for the trophy.
Depth and Flexibility
The match demonstrated Nigeria’s squad depth, with goals and assists coming from multiple players. This flexibility offers tactical options as the tournament progresses.
Potential Quarterfinal Matchup: Algeria or DR Congo
Nigeria’s next opponent will be determined by the outcome of the Algeria vs DR Congo Round of 16 fixture. Both teams present distinct challenges.
- Against Algeria: Nigeria would face a technically gifted side with tournament pedigree. Tactical discipline and midfield control would be crucial.
- Against DR Congo: Physicality and transitional play would define the contest, requiring Nigeria to maintain defensive concentration.
Regardless of the opponent, Nigeria’s performance against Mozambique sets a strong benchmark.
AFCON 2025 Context: Nigeria’s Title Pedigree
Nigeria are three-time winners of the Africa Cup of Nations and consistently rank among the continent’s football powerhouses. Their progression to the quarterfinals aligns with historical expectations, but the manner of the victory against Mozambique stands out for its authority.
The Super Eagles’ ability to combine experience with emerging talent has been a defining feature of their AFCON 2025 campaign so far.
Clean Sheet Signals Defensive Progress
One of the most notable outcomes of the match was Nigeria keeping their first clean sheet in four games at the tournament. Defensive solidity is often decisive in the knockout stages, and this development will be viewed positively by the technical crew.
Limiting Mozambique to minimal scoring chances suggests improved coordination between the defensive line and midfield shield.
Nigeria vs Mozambique AFCON 2025: A Statement Performance
The 4-0 victory over Mozambique will be remembered as a statement performance by Nigeria in the AFCON 2025 knockout phase. The Super Eagles combined clinical finishing, creative playmaking, and disciplined defending to secure progression in convincing fashion.
As Nigeria advance to the quarterfinals, attention now turns to their next challenge and the opportunity to continue their pursuit of continental glory.
