Mozambique head coach Chiquinho Conde has played down expectations ahead of his side’s Round of 16 encounter with Nigeria, acknowledging the Super Eagles’ status as favourites while stressing his team’s readiness for the challenge.
Nigeria and Mozambique will face off at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Monday, with a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations at stake.
The Super Eagles arrive in formidable form, having swept through the group stage with maximum points, a run that has positioned them as one of the leading contenders for the title.
Mozambique’s route to the knockout stage was less convincing. The Mambas secured just one win in the group phase, finishing third in Group C behind defending champions Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon.
History also weighs heavily against Mozambique, who are yet to record a victory over Nigeria, managing only one draw and suffering four defeats in previous meetings.
Still, Conde remains quietly confident that his side can rise to the occasion. He said Mozambique’s performances against top opposition show they are capable of competing at a high level.
“We have shown that we have a strong and competent team,” Conde said. “Against Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon, it was the small details that cost us. Now it’s a knockout game. Nigeria are favourites, but we approach this match with humility, calmness and a strong sense of responsibility.”
The coach added that reaching this stage has strengthened his squad’s belief, insisting they are ready to prove themselves when it matters most.
