Nigeria thrash Mozambique 4–0 to reach AFCON quarter-finals

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have secured a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a commanding 4–0 victory over Mozambique on Monday.

Nigeria dominated the second-round encounter, with Victor Osimhen scoring twice, while Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams added a goal each to underline the Super Eagles’ superiority.

The result confirmed Nigeria as winners of Group C, having won all their group matches. Mozambique, meanwhile, progressed to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams.

Despite pre-match warnings from Mozambique defender Alfons Amade about AFCON’s reputation for surprises, the contest turned out to be a one-sided affair, as Nigeria’s quality and intensity proved too much for the Mambas.

Head coach Eric Chelle returned to his preferred starting line-up after rotating his squad in the opening game, and the attacking trio of Osimhen, Adams and Lookman once again delivered an impressive performance.

Nigeria made a fast start, with Osimhen having an early goal ruled out for offside inside the opening two minutes. Alex Iwobi also came close but saw his effort saved.

The breakthrough came shortly after when Adams’ cutback found Lookman in the centre of the box, and the Atalanta winger finished calmly to open the scoring.

Five minutes later, Nigeria doubled their lead. Lookman delivered a cross intended for Adams, but a slight deflection sent the ball into Osimhen’s path, allowing the striker to convert from close range.

In the second half, Lookman turned provider again, setting up Osimhen for his second goal of the night, which the forward tapped in with ease.

The match briefly lost its rhythm following a heated exchange between Osimhen and Lookman, which required intervention from teammates. Osimhen was later substituted at his own request.

Akor Adams rounded off the emphatic win with a powerful strike for Nigeria’s fourth goal, sealing a convincing performance and sending the Super Eagles confidently into the quarter-finals.