Nigeria go into AFCON 2025 last 16 with clear direction and three group games that showed they can run matches without burning energy, Footynaija.com reports.
The test against Mozambique is about repeating the same disciplined approach that carried the Super Eagles through the group stage, while closing off the spaces Mozambique look for.
For Nigeria, it starts with how they keep the ball. Across the group stage, the Super Eagles slowed games down through long spells of possession and crisp passing.
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Against Uganda, they completed well over 500 passes and held more than 70% of the ball. That wore opponents down and cut out the loose moments Nigeria had to defend.
Applying it again limits danger by keeping the ball away from threats like Geny Catamo, whose influence in the group stage came almost entirely from quick breaks and early carries after turnovers.
Midfield spacing will matter more than all-out pressing. Nigeria do not need to swarm this game to win it. Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi have already shown that cutting passing lanes and stepping in at the right moments works better than constant pressure.
Mozambique ran into problems when teams shut off their first forward option, specifically against Cameroon, where turnovers piled up once they had to play backwards.
Wide control gives Nigeria another way to manage the game. Most of their group stage chances came through smart wing play rather than frantic breaks. Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman beat defenders and created chances without Nigeria overcommitting numbers.
The plan therefore is for full backs to push forward, and wide forwards to stay high to pin Mozambique’s defence. That keeps Nigeria dangerous without leaving both flanks exposed, the spaces Mozambique look to exploit.
Set pieces also give Nigeria another low-risk way to take control. Their long spells of possession in the group stage earned them many corners and free kicks, and they turned those chances into goals without chasing open play.
Mozambique struggled in the air and leaned on their keeper, especially against Gabon. By moving the ball patiently and drawing fouls in dangerous areas, Nigeria can create scoring opportunities while keeping their defence secure.
Game intelligence could decide this one. Nigeria showed in the group stage they can slow games after scoring, protect leads by fighting hard, and manage the clock without breaking shape.
Mozambique, by contrast, shone in short bursts but struggled to take charge once those moments passed. Nigeria do not need to blow this game open early. They need to control it and leave Mozambique chasing.
If Nigeria stay composed on the ball, protect the middle, and avoid overcommitting, Mozambique’s danger disappears. Keeping possession, being patient, and holding shape is the smartest way to win without leaving gaps.
