Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka has provided a glimpse into the team's preparations and mindset as Nigeria gears up for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations knockout match. The three-time champions are set to face the Mambas of Mozambique in the Round of 16 at the Complexe Sportif de Fes on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Unbeaten Eagles Ready for Knockout Challenge
Nigeria enters the match with immense confidence after a flawless group stage performance. Coach Eric Chelle's side secured victories over Tanzania (3-1), Tunisia (3-2), and Uganda (3-1) to top their group. In their final match against Uganda, Chelle rotated the squad heavily, making eight changes, which allowed players like Paul Onuachu to score his first international goal in four years and Raphael Onyedika to net his second of the tournament.
Onyeka: "Nothing Will Change" in Our Approach
Speaking ahead of the clash, Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka emphasized that the team's successful formula will remain unchanged. The 28-year-old revealed that the squad is fully committed to bringing the trophy home, with the coaching staff leaving no stone unturned.
"The team has been training in the last three days. I was on the bench yesterday but will work out in the morning," Onyeka stated. "For Eric Chelle and the Super Eagles team, nothing will change. The players will play with all their strength, give our best, and, with God’s help, win and move on to the next stage."
Onyeka also highlighted the positive impact of intense internal competition within the squad, particularly in midfield and on the wings, crediting it for the team's high performance level.
Confident Predictions from Nigerian Camp
The optimism within the Nigerian camp is echoed by local coach Festus Allen, who boldly predicted a victory for the Super Eagles. Allen dismissed talks of Mozambique being motivated by financial promises from their president, asserting Nigeria's superior quality.
"I have been reading it all over social media that Mozambique are ready to beat Nigeria after their President promised them a huge sum of money," Allen said. "I want to tell you that even if they are promised the entire earth, they cannot beat the Super Eagles. Nigeria are a wounded lion, they missed their second consecutive World Cup and this AFCON is their only consolation."
As the nation holds its breath, the stage is set for what promises to be an enthralling encounter as the Super Eagles begin their quest for a fourth AFCON crown.
