Mozambique coach Chiquinho Conde has warned Nigeria’s Super Eagles to brace for an all-or-nothing battle in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles will lock horns with Mozambique on Monday night at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, with both teams seeking for victory to secure a place in the quarterfinals.
Despite Nigeria’s status as clear favourites, Conde insists his outfit would approach the game with belief and discipline, stressing that knockout football leaves no room for errors.
“We have shown that we have a strong and competent team. Against Cote d’Ivoire and Cameroon we failed the details, but now it’s kill-kill. Nigeria are favourites but let’s face the game with humility, tranquility and lot of responsibility. We’ve come to this stage with respect, now we’re going to show what we can do.” He said ahead of the match.
Mozambique secured qualification to the knockout stage of the ongoing 2025 AFCON after a challenging group campaign against strong opposition.
The Mambas began their tournament with a narrow defeat to Côte d’Ivoire, before recording a historic victory over Gabon to register their first-ever win at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria arrive unbeaten against Mozambique in five meetings and are chasing another deep run as three-time champions.
Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are expected to lead the attack, with Wilfred Ndidi set to return. Mozambique, in their fifth AFCON, hope progress.
