The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Round of 16 is set to feature a highly anticipated clash between underdogs Mozambique and three-time champions Nigeria's Super Eagles. Scheduled for Monday, January 5, 2026, at 8:00 PM local time (19:00 GMT) at the Complexe Sportif de Fes in Fez, Morocco, this match presents a historic opportunity for Mozambique, who have never before defeated Nigeria in AFCON competitions.

Mozambique, often referred to as the Mambas, enters this knockout tie with a newfound confidence, having made history by securing their first-ever AFCON win—a dramatic 3-2 victory over Gabon in the group stage. This landmark achievement also marked their first qualification for the knockout rounds of the tournament, elevating their status and driving their ambition to write their names in Mozambican football history. Head coach Francisco Chiquinho Conde emphasized the team's motivation: "We are humble and we respect our opponent, but we also have the ambition of making history for our people. We want to write our names in capital letters in Mozambique football history."

Despite several injury concerns, Coach Conde expressed confidence in his squad's readiness. Key players Nenê and Edmilson remain doubtful, and Bruno Langa was rested as a precaution, but the recovery of Diogo Calila provides a boost. Conde affirmed that the collective strength and unity of the squad are paramount, stating, "Even the young players in this selection have shown they have the qualities to represent the country. The players are happy, united, and fully committed." Alfons Amade, a former Hoffenheim right-back, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the bond within the team, rather than individual talents like Witi or Geny Catamo, is their biggest strength. Captain Elias Pelembe further solidified this resolve, declaring, "We will fight until the end on the pitch. We know the journey to get here has not been easy. Dreaming costs nothing."

On the other side, Nigeria's Super Eagles arrive as clear favourites, having topped Group C with a perfect record, winning all three group games against Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda, and finishing as the tournament’s most prolific scorers with eight goals. Their squad boasts an array of attacking talent, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, Semi Ajayi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Paul Onuachu. Head coach Eric Chelle openly dreams of a dominant victory, with ambitions of "four or five goals and 80 per cent of possession," though he acknowledges the growing pressure that comes with leading one of Africa's most decorated teams, especially after their shock exit at the same stage in the 2021 tournament.

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze stressed the need for discipline, respect, and maximum commitment, urging the team to "approach the match as if it were a final." He confirmed the calm confidence and unity within the Nigerian camp, asserting that the squad is fully engaged and ready for anything. Chukwueze, a standout performer in the group stage with two assists against Uganda, emphasized that Nigeria must not drop their standards as they chase a fourth continental crown.

Historically, Nigeria holds a dominant record against Mozambique, having never lost in five previous encounters, including a 3-0 victory in AFCON 2010 and a 3-2 friendly win in October 2023. However, both Mozambique's players, like Amade and Pelembe, and Nigeria's coach Chelle are focused on the present. Amade believes "this game will be another story, another chance for us to beat Nigeria," while Chelle dismisses comparisons with past tournaments, emphasizing focus on daily preparation and the team's current state. Conde acknowledged Nigeria’s attacking depth as their greatest weapon, outlining that Mozambique’s tactical discipline and collective defensive organization will be crucial to stay competitive and potentially pull off an upset. He warned that "if we are not well focused and well positioned defensively, it will be very difficult."

As both teams finalize their preparations for this high-stakes encounter, the stage is set for a captivating battle. The winner will advance to the quarter-finals to face either Algeria or DR Congo in Marrakesh on Saturday, January 10, eager to continue their journey in the prestigious tournament.