The Super Eagles of Nigeria have concluded their triumphant group stage campaign at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco and are now in an intense preparation phase for their crucial Round of 16 clash against Mozambique’s Mambas. The highly anticipated match is scheduled for Monday at the Complexe Sportif De Fes, promising a significant challenge as Nigeria, a continental heavyweight, faces Mozambique, who qualified as one of the best-placed third teams.

Coach Eric Sékou Chelle, recently lauded as the ‘Coach of the Group Phase’ for leading Nigeria to a perfect nine points from nine in the group stage, is instilling a clear message to his players: the knockout stage demands a distinct character, prioritizing pragmatism over flair. He emphasized, “This is the end of the group stage. Another tournament starts, and we play against Mozambique.” Chelle humbly attributed his recognition to his backroom staff, stating, “I am happy about this recognition. But I will like to give the credit to my backroom staff who work tirelessly to make the team function. This development is a good motivation for me, the players and the entire squad.” He quickly refocused on the task ahead, adding, “However, this is not why we are here. We are here for something bigger and better. We will not get ahead of ourselves and think we are the best. We will continue to work hard and stay focused for every match as it comes.”

Nigeria’s impressive form under Chelle includes an unbeaten record in regulation time across 13 competitive matches since March last year. The Super Eagles also boast a prolific scoring history at the AFCON, having netted 152 goals in 107 matches since their 1963 debut. Despite this strong record, the squad is currently managing some minor injury concerns. England-based defender Ryan Alebiosu is recovering from a leg injury sustained in the 3-1 victory over Uganda, though he is expected to return in a few days. Greece-based forward Cyriel Dessers has returned to his club due to a thigh injury that will keep him out for an estimated 10-12 weeks, a significant blow. Midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi, who featured against Uganda, was also absent from training due to a cold.

Ahead of the 'David vs. Goliath' battle, Coach Chelle is expected to field a strong starting eleven. Stanley Nwabali is predicted to return as Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper for this knockout clash, having been rested against Uganda. In defense, the preferred center-back pairing of Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi is expected, with Bruno Onyemaechi maintaining his consistent role at left-back, and Bright Osayi-Samuel returning at right-back in place of the injured Ryan Alebiosu.

The midfield will see Alex Iwobi and captain Wilfred Ndidi reclaiming their starting spots, with Ndidi shielding the back four and Iwobi orchestrating play from midfield to attack. Chelle is anticipated to take a bullish approach in attack, likely fielding four forwards: Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams leading the line, supported by Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze on the flanks to provide width and pace. The wingers will also be tasked with defensive duties to prevent the midfield from being overrun.

Despite their perfect group stage record, Fulham defender Calvin Bassey has issued a stern warning against complacency. Citing Mali's victory over Tunisia as an example of how upsets can occur, Bassey emphasized, “Never underestimate any team. We can't underestimate any team. Look at yesterday's game, Tunisia had 11 men, Mali had ten men, and they won. They took it all the way to penalties.” He stressed the importance of focusing on execution and the game plan, adding that while Nigeria has