Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi has expressed confidence in the team’s chances of securing a much-needed win when they face Mozambique on Monday, SportPremi reports.
Nigeria face Mozambique in a crucial Round of 16 tie at the Fez Stadium later today, hoping for victory to book their spot in the last eight at the ongoing African Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco.
The Super Eagles have bounced back from recent setbacks to produce some of their best football in years, cruising to the top of Group C with a perfect record.
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- Nigeria vs Mozambique preview and team news
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The three-time African champions began their campaign with a 2-1 win over Tanzania and followed it up with a 3-2 win over Tunisia to book their spot in the knockout rounds.
Despite resting several regulars and making significant changes to the lineup for their final group game against Uganda, they were very dominant on their way to a 3-1 win to complete the group stage with a 100% record.
Mozambique, on the other hand, finished as the third-placed team in Group F and have only qualified for knockout rounds for the first time in history.
The Mambas recorded their first win at the African Cup of Nations against Gabon, clinching a 3-2 victory, but defeats to Ivory Coast and Cameroon condemned them to third in the group.
What Semi Ajayi said ahead of Nigeria’s Round of 16 clash against Mozambique
Hull City defender Semi Ajayi opened Nigeria’s account in Morocco with a header in the 2-1 win over Tanzania and has been very impressive for the team.
He featured in the first two matches, but was given deserved rest in the win over Uganda and will be expected to return to the lineup later today.
While reacting to the upcoming match, the center-back expects a tough clash but believes his side will seal victory and progress to the next round.
“It’s been good. A really good start for the group stages, and now we’re looking forward to the knockout round, it’s really good. It shows the strength and depth that we have”, the defender stated.
“We were able to give some debuts to some new players and also some players who haven’t had minutes yet in this tournament, and everyone did really well. It’s really good for the team. I feel great. I am really raring to go. I am looking forward to it.”
What to expect when Nigeria face Mozambique in AFCON 2025 Round of 16 clash
Nigeria will return to the Fez Stadium for a fourth time this tournament for their clash against Mozambique later today.
Several regulars who were rested against Uganda are expected to return for the clash against the Mambas, with the Super Eagles clear favourites to progress in the tie.
The three-time champions reached the final in the last AFCON edition and will be hoping for a better run in Morocco.
Kickoff for tonight’s encounter is 8 PM.
