Assahafa.com
Nigeria struck hard in the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), handing Mozambique a heavy defeat (4-0) on Monday at the Fez Sports Complex, in an offensive display that confirmed the collective strength of the Super Eagles and their status as the tournament’s top-scoring team.
The Nigerians quickly signaled their attacking intentions. In the 3rd minute, Victor Osimhen found the net, but his goal was disallowed for offside. Three minutes later, Alex Iwobi forced Mozambican goalkeeper Siluane into a decisive save, underlining Nigeria’s early dominance in the match.
Nigerian control materialized in the 19th minute through Ademola Lookman, perfectly set up with a back pass. Alone at the penalty spot, the Nigerian striker calmly finished with a powerful shot to open the scoring (1-0).
True to their playing identity, Nigeria continued to build methodically from the back, maintaining structured and fluid play, while Mozambique relied on counterattacks and long balls.
Five minutes later, Victor Osimhen doubled the lead (24th minute) after a perfectly executed team move. Lookman, positioned on the wing after a precise low pass, delivered the ball to Osimhen inside the box for an unstoppable finish.
The first half-hour thus became one of Nigeria’s most convincing collective performances of the tournament, with the Super Eagles dictating the tempo.
Despite this comfortable lead, Osimhen remained highly active, contributing defensively and making constant runs, reflecting the team’s determined mindset. In the 37th minute, Lookman missed a chance to extend the lead, opting for a pass to Adams after a high recovery, a move ultimately intercepted by the Mozambican defense.
After the break, the same scenario unfolded. In the 47th minute, Lookman delivered an outstanding individual effort, beating two defenders before setting up Osimhen at the far post, who easily slotted the ball into the net to make it 3-0.
Under repeated pressure from Nigerian attackers, the Mambas’ defense gradually crumbled, unable to cope with the speed and creativity of their opponents.
Nigerian dominance continued until the final quarter of the match. In the 75th minute, Paul Adams scored the fourth goal, definitively sealing the outcome. This marked the first time Mozambique had conceded four goals in a single match in the tournament.
Ademola Lookman was prominent throughout the match, delivering a high-level performance featuring stepovers, sharp accelerations, and decisive passes, embodying the offensive face of an irresistible Nigeria. Alongside Osimhen and Adams, he was one of the key architects of this resounding victory.
With this win, Nigeria confirms its status as the tournament’s top-scoring team, with 12 goals in four matches, and continues its AFCON 2025 journey with clearly stated ambitions.
Source: map
