Nigeria’s path at the Africa Cup of Nations is clear in destination but not yet in name.
The Super Eagles know where they will play, when they will play, and roughly what sort of challenge awaits. What they do not yet know is exactly who they will face.
Having completed a flawless group campaign in Morocco, Nigeria will meet the third-placed team from Group F in the last 16.
As things stand, that opponent could be one of four nations: defending champions Ivory Coast, five-time winners Cameroon, fast-improving Mozambique, or Gabon.
It is a situation that perfectly reflects the volatility of this AFCON; one where reputation offers little protection and momentum can swing sharply from match to match.
Nigeria earned the right to watch and wait. Eric Chelle’s side swept through Group C with three wins from three, culminating in a composed 3-1 victory over Uganda in Fez, despite making eight changes and resting several key figures walking a disciplinary tightrope.
With yellow cards wiped after the group stage, Chelle played the long game. Captain Wilfred Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, Semi Ajayi and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali were all protected. Victor Osimhen, captaining the side and starting despite the risk, navigated 87 minutes without caution.
Nigeria’s depth passed its latest examination. Paul Onuachu’s opener was his first at the AFCON, while Raphael Onyedika’s second-half brace and Samuel Chukwueze’s creative influence showed the squad’s balance between physical presence and technical sharpness.
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Group F: One of four very different paths await Nigeria
Group F remains finely poised. Mozambique currently occupy third place after a historic 3-2 win over Gabon, sitting one point behind Cameroon, with the Indomitable Lions also boasting a superior goal difference. The two meet in Agadir in a decisive final-round clash that will shape Nigeria’s knockout opponent.
Cameroon would bring familiarity and edge. Nigeria beat them 2-0 at the same stage in the last AFCON, but tournament pedigree and physical intensity make them perennial dangers, particularly in tight, low-margin knockout ties.
Mozambique, by contrast, represent the unknown. Energetic, fearless and riding confidence, they have already shown an ability to punish defensive lapses; precisely the sort of opponent that can unsettle favourites if given early encouragement.
Ivory Coast topping the group appears the most likely outcome, especially with Gabon already eliminated. While it remains mathematically possible for the holders to slip to third, it would require a dramatic collapse. Gabon themselves are outsiders, but have the athleticism to cause problems if underestimated.
For Nigeria, preparation will be broad rather than specific. Chelle’s side have shown they can manage games, rotate intelligently and impose themselves in different ways, traits essential for a tournament Nigeria hope to win for a fourth time.
Whoever emerges from Group F, the Super Eagles will enter the last 16 with confidence, clarity and a growing sense that this squad is built for the long haul. Survive Monday night in Fez, and an even bigger test, potentially against 2019 champions Algeria, could await in the quarter-finals.
For now, Nigeria watch, wait, and quietly sharpen their knives.