The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set for a thrilling Round of 16 clash as the Nigerian Super Eagles prepare to face Mozambique's Mambas. Both teams approach this decisive encounter with varying degrees of confidence and historical baggage, promising a tightly contested battle at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco.

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has expressed unwavering confidence in the Nigerian squad, asserting their readiness for the knockout stage. The 27-year-old Galatasaray forward, a key figure throughout the group matches, including captaining the side against Uganda, believes Nigeria is one of the most formidable teams in the tournament. "Yes, I would count my country as one of the favourites. We are one of the most feared teams in this tournament," Osimhen stated, adding that while they respect every opponent, they possess the quality to overcome any challenge. He underscored the team's collective resolve to bring the AFCON trophy back to Nigeria after a long hiatus, emphasizing their commitment in every training session.

Adding to Nigeria's positive momentum, head coach Eric Chelle was recognized as the best coach of the AFCON 2025 group stage. This accolade followed a flawless group-stage campaign where the Super Eagles secured three consecutive victories: a 2-1 win over Tanzania, and identical 3-2 triumphs against Tunisia and Uganda. Only Algeria's Desert Foxes matched this perfect record. Chelle, however, was quick to deflect praise, attributing the recognition to his backroom staff and stressing the team's ultimate ambition. "This is a good motivation for me, the players, and the entire squad," Chelle remarked, "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 run also saw them as the most prolific attacking side in the group stage, scoring eight goals through six different players, showcasing tactical balance and depth. This resurgence under Chelle came after a period of inconsistent performances and missed FIFA World Cup qualifications, as the team rediscovered structure, discipline, and confidence.

Despite Nigeria's strong performance, questions have been raised about their defensive solidity, having conceded four goals in the group stage, including one against a 10-man Uganda. Former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye advised the team to play with extreme urgency and intensity from the first minute, advocating for multiple goals to avoid any knockout stage mistakes. He suggested the timely inclusion of players like Raphael Onyedika to perfect the team's blend.

On the other side, Mozambique's star midfielder Manuel Kambala has voiced a strong belief that the Mambas can eliminate Nigeria. Despite never having beaten the Super Eagles in five previous encounters (one draw, four defeats, including a 3-0 loss in AFCON 2010), Kambala insists history and reputation will not dictate the outcome. Mozambique, making their first-ever AFCON knockout stage appearance, qualified with one win (a dramatic 3-2 victory over Gabon) and losses to Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon. Kambala asserted, "We have already shown that on the field, we have already demonstrated that we are not just here to participate, we know it will not be an easy game."

Cameroon legend Joel Epalle, an African champion, also warned Nigeria against underestimating Mozambique. He described the Mambas as one of the most impressive teams in the tournament, praising their tactical organization, confidence, and skillful play, driven by sharp transitions and a squad primarily from their local league under a national coach. Epalle believes while Nigeria remains a favourite for the quarter-finals, alongside Morocco, Egypt, and Ivory Coast, discipline and focus will be paramount against a highly motivated Mozambique side.

In preparation for the Monday evening clash, scheduled for 8:00 PM WAT, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has opted for closed training sessions since Thursday. This move is designed to sharpen focus, protect tactical plans, and shield players from external distractions as pressure mounts in the knockout phase. The Confederation of African Football has appointed an all-Cameroonian refereeing crew, with Abdou Abdel Mefire as the center referee, supported by Elvis Noupoue and Carine Atezambong.

With Nigeria chasing a fourth continental title and Mozambique aiming for a historic upset, the Round of 16 encounter promises a fascinating battle between pedigree and tactical prowess.