Nigeria will meet Mozambique in the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following the conclusion of the group stage on Wednesday.

The Super Eagles’ knockout opponent was confirmed after the final fixtures in Groups E and F brought the opening phase of the tournament to a close. Algeria topped Group E with a flawless record, sealing first place with a 3–1 victory over Equatorial Guinea, while Burkina Faso claimed second spot after a 2–0 win against Sudan.

In Group F, defending champions Ivory Coast staged a dramatic comeback from two goals down to defeat Gabon 3–2, while Cameroon edged Mozambique 2–1. Those results left Mozambique finishing third in the group, setting up a last-16 meeting with Nigeria.

Nigeria had already wrapped up top spot in Group C with a perfect return, finishing ahead of Tunisia and Tanzania after wins over Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda. That 100 per cent record meant the Eagles were paired with one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, with Mozambique eventually confirmed as their next opponents.

While Nigeria’s dominant group-stage showing has raised expectations, it has also stirred memories of their 2021 campaign when a perfect start ended in a round-of-16 exit. This time, the current squad will be determined to turn early promise into a sustained run deep into the competition.

Elsewhere in the last-16 draw, Mali will face Tunisia, Morocco take on Tanzania, Algeria meet DR Congo, Egypt play Benin, Senegal clash with Sudan, South Africa face Cameroon, and Burkina Faso square off against Ivory Coast.

Nigeria’s knockout tie against the Mambas is scheduled for Monday in Fez, where the Super Eagles will aim to keep their momentum alive and avoid an early stumble in their AFCON 2025 campaign.