Nigeria brought closer the end of almost two decades “in the wilderness” by reaching a record eighth Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final with a 4-0 win over Mozambique, and thus bringing The Mambas’ history-making debut quarterfinal adventure to an abrupt close.
The 2023 runners-up were in charge from the start and quickly showed their superiority. Nigeria put the hosts under pressure but had an early goal for Victor Osimhen disallowed for offside, and Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman both came close. The opener came on 20 minutes as Lookman lashed a precise finish into the top corner for his third goal of the competition.
Five minutes later, Nigeria would make it two. Lookman’s cross was flicked on by Akor Adams, and Osimhen tapped home at the back post. Mozambique found it difficult to handle the Super Eagles’ high pace and were lucky not to find themselves further behind at half-time as Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Adams all came close.
The flow of the match did not change after the interval, and Osimhen doubled his tally for the evening from Lookman’s cross at headed home from close range at the far post. Osayi-Samuel and Adams were among those who also had efforts on goal, goalkeeper Ernan Siluane being troubled by both before Adams wrapped up a fine personal outing by outmuscling his marker to smash home Nigeria’s fourth.
The victory was Nigeria’s fourth in a row at the tournament for their first time ever, and tied their record margin of victory in an AFCON match. Éric Chelle’s team will take on Algeria or DR Congo in the quarter-finals for a place in the last four as they bid to be crowned champions.
