Nigeria defeats Mozambique 4-0 to cruise into Quarterfinals

The Super Eagles have sealed a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Mozambique 4–0 in their Round of 16 match in Fès.

Nigeria came into the encounter with confidence, having recorded a perfect run in the group stage to finish top of Group C.

That momentum carried into the knockout tie as the Eagles dominated from the opening minutes, leaving Mozambique — who were featuring in the Round of 16 for the first time after qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams from Group F — struggling to keep up.

The breakthrough arrived in the 20th minute when Ademola Lookman calmly finished a move set up by Akor Adams. Victor Osimhen made it 2–0 just five minutes later, before the duo combined again early in the second half, with Lookman providing the assist for Osimhen’s second goal in the 47th minute. Akor Adams completed the rout in the 75th minute, scoring Nigeria’s fourth of the night.

Wilfred Ndidi marshalled the midfield alongside Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi, while Stanley Nwabali returned to the starting lineup in goal. The defensive quartet of Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi remained solid throughout, ensuring Mozambique had no clear chances.

In the second half, coach Chelle rang the changes, bringing on Paul Onuachu and Samuel Chukwueze for Akor Adams and Lookman, while Tom Dele Bashiru and Onyedika replaced Onyeka and Ndidi. Moses Simon later came on for Osimhen as Nigeria comfortably saw out the game.

By the 80th minute, the Super Eagles had recorded eight shots on target, with Mozambique yet to force Nwabali into a save.

The convincing victory keeps Nigeria’s title ambitions firmly on track as they continue their quest for a fourth AFCON trophy. Their quarter-final opponents will be decided after the clash between Algeria and Congo DR.