Nigeria Make Statement as Super Eagles Cruise into Afcon 2025 Quarter-Finals

Nigeria national football team delivered one of the most authoritative performances of the tournament so far, dismantling Mozambique national football team 4-0 in Fes to secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

From the opening exchanges, Nigeria set the tempo. Victor Osimhen thought he had struck inside two minutes, only for the flag to deny him, but the warning was clear. The breakthrough arrived on 20 minutes when Ademola Lookman bent a composed finish beyond the goalkeeper following a precise cutback from Akor Adams.

The Super Eagles tightened their grip moments later. Slick midfield work from Alex Iwobi released Lookman, whose driven delivery deflected kindly for Osimhen to convert at close range. Mozambique, making their first appearance at this stage of the competition, struggled to cope with Nigeria’s pace and movement.

Any hopes of a response were extinguished shortly after the restart. Osimhen struck again, ghosting in at the back post to turn home Lookman’s low cross for his second goal of the night. Adams completed the rout in the 75th minute, finishing confidently after yet another incisive Nigerian attack.

The victory underlined Nigeria’s status as genuine title contenders. Having entered the knockout phase as one of only two teams with a perfect record alongside Algeria national football team, Eric Chelle’s side became the first to score four goals in a single match at this year’s finals. It also marked their first clean sheet of the tournament after conceding four times in the group stage.

There remains a sense of caution, however. Nigeria’s last flawless Afcon start in 2021 ended abruptly in the round of 16 against Tunisia national football team. Still, this performance — rich in creativity, control, and ruthlessness — suggested lessons have been learned.

As the Super Eagles look to improve on their runner-up finish behind Ivory Coast national football team in 2023, potential clashes with DR Congo national football team or Algeria promise compelling narratives. For now, Nigeria march on with confidence and momentum firmly on their side.

Betway Arabia continues to bring you in-depth coverage and expert analysis from every stage of the Africa Cup of Nations.