The real work begins now.
After a perfect group-stage campaign, Nigeria return to the Complexe Sportif de Fes on Monday night knowing that knockout football leaves no room for error. The Super Eagles finished top of Group C with three wins from three and will now face Mozambique in the Round of 16, with a place in the AFCON quarter-finals on the line
Nigeria in Strong Form
Nigeria could not have asked for a better start to the tournament. Wins over Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda saw Eric Chelle’s side score eight goals and establish themselves as the most dangerous attacking team at AFCON so far.
Rotation against Uganda did little to slow the momentum, as Paul Onuachu opened the scoring before Raphael Onyedika’s quickfire brace sealed a 3-1 win. With regular starters expected to return, Nigeria’s depth and attacking options remain one of their biggest strengths heading into the knockouts
While defensive clean sheets have been elusive, the Super Eagles have consistently found goals, and that firepower will be key on Monday.
How the group stages played out for the @NGSuperEagles! ?? pic.twitter.com/9SgJDpVgMY
— Bet9ja: The home of #betBOOM! ? (@Bet9jaOfficial) January 5, 2026
Mozambique Face Steep Test
Mozambique have reached the AFCON knockout stages for the first time in their history, qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams. Their group-stage campaign included a dramatic 3-2 win over Gabon, but defeats to Ivory Coast and Cameroon exposed defensive weaknesses.
The Mambas have struggled historically at AFCON and now face a Nigerian side in full flow. Against the tournament’s highest scorers, Chiquinho Conde’s men are likely to adopt a compact, defensive approach, hoping to frustrate and counter when possible
Head-to-Head Favours the Super Eagles
Nigeria’s record against Mozambique offers further encouragement. The Super Eagles are unbeaten in five meetings, winning four and drawing one, including a 3-2 friendly victory as recently as October 2023.
Mozambique have never beaten Nigeria and have never progressed beyond this stage of the competition, while the Super Eagles are chasing a fourth AFCON title.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Victor Osimhen is expected to lead the line once again after scoring against Tunisia, with Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams likely to return to the starting XI after being rested last time out. Eric Chelle is also expected to restore a familiar back four as Nigeria look to strike the right balance between control and attacking threat
Mozambique will be without Diogo Calila and Nene through injury, further stretching a squad already facing a tough task.
How should the Super Eagles approach tonight's game? ? pic.twitter.com/u229vWMrzl
— Bet9ja: The home of #betBOOM! ? (@Bet9jaOfficial) January 5, 2026
Nigeria vs Mozambique: Top Betting Picks
Nigeria head into the Round of 16 full of confidence after a perfect group stage, and several markets stand out based on recent form and match trends.
Nigeria & Over 2.5 Goals – 2.12
The Super Eagles have been free-scoring throughout the tournament and have seen over 2.5 goals land in each of their group matches. With Nigeria pushing for control early, this combination offers solid value
Booking Code: 3W5B3XK – Or Click Here to Book!
Victor Osimhen to Score Anytime – 1.94
Osimhen remains Nigeria’s main attacking threat and thrives in knockout football. With chances likely to come his way, backing him to find the net at any time looks a strong option.
Booking Code: 3W5B72R – Or Click Here to Book!
Nigeria & Both Teams To Score – 4.10
Both Teams To Score has landed in all of Nigeria’s AFCON matches so far, while Mozambique have found the net in two of their three group games. Nigeria to win with goals at both ends is priced generously here.
Booking Code: 3W5B9MM – Or Click Here to Book!
Nigeria to Have the Most Cards – 2.96
Nigeria have received more cards than their opponents in every group-stage match at this tournament. In a physical knockout tie, this trend could continue.
Booking Code: 3W5BBY8 – Or Click Here to Book!
