Nigeria delivered a statement performance at the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON 2025, sweeping aside Mozambique to secure a convincing passage into the quarter-finals in a match defined by control, clarity, and clinical execution.
From the opening exchanges, the Super Eagles imposed themselves on the contest, dominating possession and territory while pinning Mozambique deep in their half.
The early pressure paid off when Ademola Lookman broke the deadlock, finishing confidently to give Nigeria a deserved lead and set the rhythm for what would become a one-sided encounter.
Victor Osimhen, leading the line with authority, doubled the advantage before halftime, the Napoli striker capitalised on Lookman’s intelligent delivery, showcasing his movement and finishing instincts to put Nigeria firmly in control.
Mozambique struggled to cope with the pace and physicality of Nigeria’s front line, while the Eagles’ midfield ensured quick ball circulation and defensive stability.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Nigeria maintaining their grip on the game.
Osimhen struck again after the restart, once more benefiting from Lookman’s creativity, the goal effectively extinguished any hopes of a Mozambican comeback and underlined Nigeria’s attacking depth and tactical discipline.
With the game safely in hand, Nigeria’s technical crew opted for early rotation. Moses Simon replaced Osimhen, while further substitutions saw Oyedika come in for Frank Onyeka, Dele-Bashiru replace Wilfred Ndidi, and Paul Onuachu introduced for Lookman. The changes ensured fresh legs while preserving the team’s structure and tempo.
One of the standout moments of the night arrived when Akor Adams, introduced off the bench, marked his Africa Cup of Nations debut goal in style, the striker finished clinically after yet another assist from Lookman, completing a remarkable individual display that produced a goal and three assists.
Samuel Chukwueze later replaced Adams as Nigeria comfortably saw out the closing stages, their defensive organisation denying Mozambique any meaningful route back into the contest.
Beyond the scoreline, the performance sent a clear message, Nigeria were balanced, ruthless, and composed, a side growing into the tournament at exactly the right time.
With attacking cohesion, midfield control, and depth off the bench, the Super Eagles now march into the quarter-finals carrying momentum, belief, and renewed continental ambition.
