The Super Eagles of Nigeria will trade tackles with Mozambique on Monday for a place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
It promises to be a David vs. Goliath battle at the Complexe Sportif De Fes. Nigeria remains a continental heavyweight, in stark contrast to Mozambique, who are perennial underachievers.
Also, the Super Eagles squad is stacked with superior talent, boasting stars like Victor Osimhen, Calvin Bassey, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze. Consequently, it would be considered a major AFCON heist if Mozambique managed to pull off an upset.
Coach Eric Chelle never shies away from utilizing his plethora of attacking stars, and he is expected to do the same in this fixture. Ahead of the clash, Soccernet.ng predicts the Super Eagles’ starting eleven.
Super Eagles Predicted XI vs. Mozambique
Goalkeeper
Last time out against Uganda, Francis Uzoho manned the sticks for Nigeria. However, that was only because the game was a dead rubber.
For this knockout clash, Stanley Nwabali is expected to return as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Defenders
In the absence of Benjamin Fredrick, Eric Chelle’s preferred center-back pairing has been Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi; he is expected to deploy that same partnership against the Mambas.
At left-back, Bruno Onyemaechi is set to keep his place. He has been consistent throughout the tournament, and Chelle is likely to stick with him.
At right-back, Bright Osayi-Samuel will return in place of Ryan Alebiosu, who played against Uganda.
Midfielders
Alex Iwobi and captain Wilfred Ndidi will reclaim their places in the starting lineup after watching Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru from the bench last time out.
Ndidi will act as the shield for the back four, while Iwobi will be tasked with transitioning play from midfield to attack.
Attackers
Chelle is expected to take a bullish approach, likely fielding four attackers. Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams will lead the line as a pair, playing off one another.
On the flanks, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze will provide width and pace.
Although they will start in advanced roles, Chelle will demand that the wingers drop back regularly to assist with defensive duties and prevent the midfield from being overrun.