For Eric Chelle’s Nigeria, the goal is clear: qualification, but above all the way. Undisputed leaders of Group C after a clear course (9 points out of 9), the Nigerians impressed, especially during a technical demonstration against Tunisia (3-2). Yet, a wind of caution blows over the Nigerian camp. The spectre of AFCON 2021 in Cameroon, where the Super Eagles crashed in the 8th against Tunisia after a perfect first round, still haunt minds.

Despite a fire attack led by the duo Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman (already 2 goals and 2 assists for the player from Atalanta), the defence showed signs of febrility, conceding at least one goal in each of their group phase games. Eric Chelle will have to tighten the bolts behind to avoid a historical disillusion.

Mozambique, the Little Thumb who is no longer afraid
In front, the Mozambique of Chiquinho Conde savours its moment. Coming out alive from a group of death behind Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon, the Mambas have proven that they can shake up hierarchies. Their victory against Gabon (3-1) and their heroic resistance against the Ivorian Elephants made them the thrilling team of this edition.

The number one danger is called Geny Catamo. The Sporting CP winger, unbearable since the start of the competition, will be the spearhead of a team that plays without pressure, with the ambition to write the most beautiful page of its football history.

“Write our own story”
The pre-match press conferences set the stage for a confrontation between ambition and humility.

Chiquinho Conde (Mozambique Coach): 

“It was said that Mozambique would never win a match in the finals. Today, we are in 8th grade. We have already gained experience and respect. Facing Nigeria, we will look for the gaps to offer a historic victory to our people.

Victor Osimhen (Nigeria striker):

 “We respect every opponent. Mozambique showed great qualities in their group. But we are here to go to the end. Every match is a final from now on.

A historical advantage for Nigeria
The figures largely support the Super Eagles, but the Mambas proved in 2023 that they knew how to reduce the gap. In the last three confrontations, these all turned in favor of the Nigerians with successes 1-0 (in 2009), 3-0 (in 2010) and 3-2 (in 2023).

The key figure: 8. It is the number of goals scored by Nigeria during the group stage of this edition. An offensive power that Mozambique will have to contain under penalty of seeing its dream stop brutally.