The Super Eagles head into their Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 clash against Mozambique as clear favourites, but history has repeatedly shown that knockout football at this level leaves little room for complacency, Footynaija.com reports.
This year’s edition has already produced a perfect example of the ruthless nature of knockout football, with Tunisia’s elimination at the hands of 10-men Mali via a penalty shootout after the Carthage Eagles contrived to concede a 96th minute equalizer despite only taking the lead in the 88th minute of that game.
Nigeria will certainly be looking to avoid a similar fate as that of their group stage rivals when they lock horns with the Mambas of Mozambique on Monday night. But for that to be the case, there are a number of key factors the Super Eagles must get right in Fes.
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Maintain full concentration for 90 minutes
The Super Eagles must stay switched on from the first whistle to the last as any lapses in concentration, particularly in transition and set-piece situations could open the door for the Mambas to strike a fatal blow.
Mozambique will likely sit deep, absorb pressure and look to pounce on mistakes. Any casual defending, loose passes in midfield, or poor positioning could quickly turn momentum against Eric Chelle’s side.
The Super Eagles must absolutely avoid the kind of defensive switching off that allowed Tanzania and Uganda grab consolation goals for themselves in the group stages.
Defensive discipline is non-negotiable
While the Super Eagles have been one of the best attacking teams in the tournament thus far, their defensive record has left a lot to be desired. They remain in search of their first clean sheet of the competition after conceding in all three of their group stage matches.
Mozambique will likely rely on counter-attacks and direct balls into the channels, targeting spaces behind Nigeria’s full-backs.
Clear communication between centre-backs, protection from the midfield screen and controlled aggression will be crucial. The Super Eagles must avoid unnecessary fouls around the box and defend set-pieces properly.
Score early and control the game
An early goal for the Super Eagles would significantly reduce Mozambique’s belief and force them out of their defensive shell. Their tempo and pressing in the opening exchanges must reflect a controlled amount of urgency.
Scoring first allows the Super Eagles to dictate the rhythm, stretch the opposition and avoid the frustration that often creeps in when underdogs grow in confidence. Patience will still be required, but early efficiency could turn a tricky fixture into a controlled outing.
The Mambas of Mozambique have nothing to lose and everything to gain which makes them a dangerous opposition. Nigeria’s path into the last eight lies in respecting that threat while trusting their experience and quality to make the difference.
