By Kunle Solaja
Nigeria’s Super Eagles will take on Mozambique in the Round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday in Fez, following the conclusion of the group stage on Tuesday night.
Mozambique booked their place in the knockout phase after finishing third in Group F and emerging as one of the four best third-placed teams across the six groups.
The Mambas’ progression was confirmed despite a 2–1 defeat to Cameroon in their final Group F match. Results elsewhere worked in their favour, allowing them to advance under the tournament’s best third-placed teams rule.
Elsewhere, dramatic late twists characterised the final day of group action. Côte d’Ivoire produced a stirring comeback, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Gabon 3–2 and keep their own tournament hopes alive.
Nigeria, who completed the group stage with a perfect record, will head into the Fez encounter as one of the form teams of the competition, while Mozambique will be hoping to extend their fairytale run against one of Africa’s traditional heavyweights.
The Round of 16 clash sets the stage for another high-stakes knockout battle as the race for continental glory intensifies in Morocco.
