- The Nigeria vs Mozambique prediction article, breaks down form, key players and H2H meetings ahead of the clash.
- The game will take place on Monday, January 5, at Complexe Sportif de Fès.
- Kick off set for 10pm EAT / 8pm local time.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 enters day three at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, featuring two sides at opposite ends of the historical spectrum.
While Nigeria enters as the tournament’s most clinical side with a perfect group-stage record, Mozambique makes history by appearing in their first-ever AFCON knockout match.
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The Super Eagles, led by Eric Chelle, have emerged as the team to beat, scoring a tournament-high eight goals.
On the other side, Chiquinho Conde’s Mambas are riding a wave of national euphoria after securing their first-ever tournament win against Gabon to reach this stage.
What time does Nigeria vs Mozambique kick-off?
The match is scheduled to take place at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Fès with kickoff slated for 2200 Hrs East African Time.
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Nigeria vs Mozambique team news
For Nigeria, coach Eric Chelle is expected to welcome back stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman to the starting lineup after they were protected in the final group game. However, the Super Eagles will be without Cyriel Dessers and Ryan Alebiosu, who have both been ruled out through injury.
Mozambique also faces some selection headaches as Diogo Calila and Nene are confirmed absentees due to injuries sustained in the group stage.
Nigeria vs Mozambique predicted lineups
The predicted lineup for Nigeria features Stanley Nwabali in goal with a back four of Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Bruno Onyemaechi.
The midfield is expected to be anchored by Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka, while the attacking trio will likely consist of Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams, and Victor Osimhen.
For Mozambique, Ernan Siluane is expected to start between the sticks, with a defensive line of Nanani, Mexer, Edmilson Dove, and Bruno Langa.
The midfield should feature Shaquille Nangy and Amadou, with Geny Catamo, Elias Pelembe, and Gildo Vilanculos providing support to the lone striker, Stanley Ratifo.
Nigeria vs Mozambique head to head record
Historically, the Super Eagles have been a mountain that the Mambas have struggled to climb.
In their previous five meetings, Nigeria has dominated the series with four wins and one draw, while Mozambique is still searching for their first competitive win against the West African giants.
Their only previous meeting in an AFCON tournament came in 2010, where Nigeria secured a comfortable 3-0 victory.
Nigeria vs Mozambique prediction
The Super Eagles enter this clash as heavy favorites, backed by their status as one of only two teams to finish the group stage with a perfect nine points.
Despite their winning streak, the Super Eagles have conceded in every single match so far.
Mozambique has proven they can be competitive against the continent’s elite, having only lost by a single goal to both Ivory Coast and Cameroon.
While Mozambique may frustrate Nigeria early on and potentially exploit their defensive lapses, the Super Eagles’ firepower should prove overwhelming over 90 minutes with the match ending in a high scoring context of 3-1 in favour of Nigeria.