Nigeria cruised into the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a commanding 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the last-16 stage, thanks to a brilliant double from striker Victor Osimhen. The Super Eagles will now face either Algeria or the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in Marrakesh this Saturday.

Ademola Lookman Opens Scoring in Morocco

The match, held in Fes, Morocco, saw former African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman set the tone, scoring Nigeria’s first goal after 20 minutes. Lookman also provided key assists for the other goals, demonstrating his creative influence on the pitch and helping cement Nigeria’s dominant performance.

Osimhen, who initially played without his trademark face mask, restored the covering before scoring Nigeria’s second goal in the 25th minute. He struck again just after halftime, effectively putting Mozambique out of contention. Forward Akor Adams rounded off the scoring to complete Nigeria’s emphatic win.

This 4-0 result is the largest margin in an AFCON knockout match since Egypt defeated Algeria 4-0 in the semifinals of the 2010 tournament in Angola.

Mozambique’s First Knockout Stage Appearance

For Mozambique, this marked their first-ever appearance in an AFCON knockout match after qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams in the group stage. Despite their historic achievement, they were no match for a Nigerian side determined to make amends for missing the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Coach Eric Chelle made several lineup changes from Nigeria’s final group game, giving fringe players opportunities to shine. Lookman, who scored against Tunisia in the group stage, returned to the starting XI and immediately made an impact, turning provider and setting up Osimhen’s first goal.

Osimhen Shines Despite Physical Challenge

The Galatasaray striker showed resilience after being kneed in the stomach by Mozambique’s Witi but continued his dominant performance on the field. His second goal, finished from a low cross by Lookman in the 47th minute, ensured that Mozambique had no chance of a comeback.

Osimhen’s performance was a statement after a scoring drought in AFCON, as he had gone seven matches without a goal before netting against Tunisia in the group stage. He now has three goals in the tournament, reaffirming his status as one of Africa’s premier forwards.

Adams Completes Nigeria’s Convincing Win

As the match approached its final quarter, Lookman supplied Akor Adams with a precise ball inside the box. The Sevilla forward rifled a high shot into the net, completing Nigeria’s 4-0 victory.

Super Eagles Look Ahead to Quarterfinal Clash

Nigeria’s win sets up an intriguing quarterfinal match against either Algeria or the DRC, with the latter having defeated Nigeria in a World Cup qualifying playoff last November. A clash with either team offers the Super Eagles a chance for revenge or further AFCON glory, depending on the outcome of the last-16 tie between Algeria and DRC.

Elsewhere in the tournament, Egypt advanced after a 3-1 extra-time win over Benin, and will face either Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso in the next round.

The Super Eagles’ dominant display, led by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, sends a clear message to Africa’s football elite: Nigeria is a serious contender for the 2025 AFCON title.