Nigeria vs Mozambique: Super Eagles Face the Ghost of AFCON History

The Super Eagles are gradually separating themselves from the rest, having seen off Sudan and, surprisingly, Tunisia. Yet, as Nigeria prepares to face first-time Round of 16 qualifiers Mozambique, caution is key. Many fans view the pairing as favorable—a seemingly easy path—but the Mambas, who advanced as one of the four best third-placed teams, could pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s ambitions.

History has a way of repeating itself, sometimes painfully. Recall AFCON 2021, held in early 2022 in Cameroon. Nigeria, under caretaker coach Austin Eguavoen, began their campaign in Garoua with strong performances: a 1-0 win over Egypt, 3-1 against Sudan, and 2-0 versus Guinea-Bissau. The Super Eagles topped their group with maximum points, scoring seven goals and conceding just one. Coach Eguavoen was named the best coach of the group stage, while Moses Simon earned a spot in the best XI.

However, the Round of 16 brought heartbreak. Nigeria, still in Garoua, faced Tunisia, a team that had won just one match in the group stage. Rumors swirled that Tunisia wanted CAF to postpone the match due to Covid-19 infections leaving them with a depleted bench. Whether mind game or ploy, it worked. Tunisia stunned Nigeria with a solitary goal from Youssef Msakni two minutes into the second half. Alex Iwobi was sent off, and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye faced criticism for letting the ball slip through—a moment that has shaped his international career.

Now, history threatens to echo itself. Mozambique enters the Round of 16 with only one group-stage victory, yet their underdog status hides a message of intent. Influential midfielder Manuel Kambala declared, “We are not going home on Monday.” Their determination is clear.

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle, recently named Best Coach of the Group Stage, has stressed caution. “We have not won anything yet. We are here for the trophy but the most important thing now is Mozambique,” he said. Chelle is well aware of the 2021 episode and aims to prevent any repeat of past disappointments.

With eight goals from three group matches, Nigeria boasts one of Africa’s most formidable attacks. Chelle is expected to deploy Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Taiwo Awoniyi, Samuel Chukwueze, or Moses Simon to challenge Mozambique’s defense. In midfield, Alex Iwobi returns alongside captain Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka, while the defense line will feature Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Bruno Onyemaechi.

Goalkeeping remains a question mark. Francis Uzoho, who played against Uganda, and Nwabali, who rested in that match, are options. Chelle may decide based on form and readiness.

While Nigeria enters as favorites, complacency is a danger. The road to lifting the trophy remains long, and the Super Eagles know the lessons of history must not be ignored.

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