The Super Eagles head into their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 as massive favourites courtesy of their experience, superior quality and impressive current form, Footynaija.com reports.
This is Nigeria’s 21st appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations, compared to just six for Mozambique. This simply means that the West Africans are more familiar with the demands of this tournament, especially at the stage, having learned how to manage them over time.
Having established themselves as regular contenders in recent editions of this tournament, the Super Eagles are not strangers to reaching this stage of the competition. They reached the final in 2023 and finished third in 2019. Those recent experiences could inadvertently come in handy as they go deeper into this tournament.
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Mozambique, on the other hand, are making their first-ever appearance in the AFCON knockout rounds. Reaching this stage is already historic for the Mambas, but the jump in pressure is significant. Knockout games are often decided by fine margins, and teams unfamiliar with that environment are more prone to costly mistakes.
Beyond individual quality, the Super Eagles boast players accustomed to high-pressure football at club level. Players like Calvin Bassey and Ademola Lookman have featured in major European finals, while the likes of Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon and Semi Ajayi can provide leadership and calm on the pitch.
Experience and pedigree does not guarantee victory for the Super Eagles, but at this stage of the tournament, it can definitely go a long way in limiting errors. Nigeria go into this tie with an edge Mozambique have yet to develop at this level and as a result, the odds are overwhelmingly stacked in their favour.
