The Super Eagles of Nigeria have expressed unwavering confidence ahead of their crucial Round of 16 match against Mozambique at the Africa Cup of Nations, dismissing a significant cash incentive promised to their opponents.
Mozambique's Presidential Carrot Fails to Intimidate Nigeria
Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo has pledged a special bonus of 500,000 meticais (approximately N11.3 million) to each Mambas player if they manage to defeat the Super Eagles in the knockout clash scheduled for Monday, January 5, 2026. This historic match, set for the Complexe Sportif de Fès at 8.00 p.m., marks Mozambique's first-ever appearance in the AFCON knockout stage.
Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi, responded to the news with calm assurance. "Yes, I heard their President has dangled a special carrot for them to beat us, but that won’t happen," Ndidi stated after training on Friday. He acknowledged the power of cash motivation but emphasized the team's greater determination to secure a quarterfinal ticket.
History and Confidence Favor the Eagles
The upcoming match is the sixth senior-level encounter between both nations. Nigeria boasts a dominant record, having won four of the previous five meetings. This includes a 3-0 victory in their only prior AFCON clash in Lubango, Angola, in January 2010, under the late coach Shaibu Amodu.
Star striker Victor Osimhen reinforced the team's confident mindset. He described the Super Eagles as one of the tournament's most feared sides and a favorite for the title, especially after finishing as runners-up in Côte d’Ivoire two years ago. "We respect every team... but anyone we meet in the next round, they are going to see the fighting spirit of Nigeria," Osimhen declared, promising a tougher performance in the knockout phase.
Tactical Battle and Officiating Crew
Both coaches, Nigeria's Eric Chelle and Mozambique's Chiquinho Conde, are keeping their tactical plans close to their chests. Chelle, driven by the Nigerian demand for victory, is focused on building a resilient defensive and attacking structure.
Conde, meanwhile, advocates for calmness and humility. "Nigeria are favourites... but let us face the game with humility, tranquillity, and a lot of responsibility," the Mozambican coach stated, aiming to spring a surprise with key players like defenders Nené and Reinildo Mandava.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed an all-Cameroon officiating team for the high-stakes match. Abdou Abdel Mefire will be the centre referee, assisted by Elvis Noupoue and Carine Atezambong.
With a quarterfinal place at stake, the Super Eagles are poised to translate their confidence and historical advantage into a winning performance, undeterred by any external motivations offered to their opponents.
