The Nigeria vs Mozambique fixture at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 is a compelling knockout-stage encounter that brings together African football tradition and an emerging underdog story. As the tournament progresses into its decisive phase, this match carries high stakes for both nations.
Below is a detailed guide to everything you need to know about the clash.
Match Overview
- Fixture: Nigeria vs Mozambique
- Competition: Africa Cup of Nations 2025
- Stage: Round of 16
- Date: January 5, 2026
- Kickoff Time: 20:00 WAT (19:00 GMT)
- Venue: Complexe Sportif de Fès, Fez, Morocco
This is a knockout match, meaning the winner advances to the quarter-finals while the loser exits the tournament.
Why This Match Matters
- A place in the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals is at stake
- Nigeria are chasing a fourth continental title
- Mozambique are competing in the knockout phase for the first time in AFCON history
- Momentum from this match could define each team’s tournament legacy
Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 Campaign
Nigeria national football team, widely known as the Super Eagles, entered AFCON 2025 among the title favorites and have largely lived up to expectations so far.
Key Points About Nigeria
- Finished top of their group with maximum points
- One of the highest-scoring teams in the group stage
- Strong attacking depth and squad rotation
- Yet to keep a clean sheet, highlighting defensive areas to manage
Nigeria’s approach has been built around pace, physical strength, and attacking transitions, making them dangerous against any opponent.
Mozambique’s Historic AFCON Run
Mozambique national football team, nicknamed the Mambas, have already written history at AFCON 2025.
Key Points About Mozambique
- Qualified for the knockout stage for the first time ever
- Advanced as one of the best third-placed teams
- Known for resilience, work rate, and collective discipline
- Playing with minimal pressure and maximum belief
For Mozambique, this match represents a rare opportunity to challenge one of Africa’s biggest football nations on the continental stage.
Head-to-Head Record
- Total competitive meetings: 5
- Nigeria wins: 4
- Draws: 1
- Mozambique wins: 0
- Last AFCON meeting: Nigeria won 3–0
While history favors Nigeria heavily, knockout football often ignores past records.
