Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has declared that Nigeria are fully prepared to face Mozambique on Monday in the Round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), stating that his team is one of the most feared side at the tournament.
The 27-year-old Galatasaray forward has been a key figure for the Super Eagles throughout the group stage, featuring in all three matches against Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda, and captaining the side during their emphatic 3-1 victory over Uganda in the final group game. Nigeria topped their group to book a knockout clash with Mozambique.
Speaking ahead of the decisive encounter, Osimhen expressed confidence in Nigeria’s pedigree, insisting the Super Eagles remain one of Africa’s most feared teams.
“Yes, I would count my country as one of the favourites. We are one of the most feared teams in this tournament,” Osimhen told Soccernet.ng. “Any team can come and play us. If they are good, they can scale through, but if they are not, we can trample any team because this team has got the quality to do damage.”
The former Napoli striker stressed that while Nigeria respects every opponent, fear is not part of their mindset.
“We respect every team that progresses to the next round, and anyone we meet is going to see the fighting spirit of Nigeria,” he said. “We are not scared of anybody.”
Osimhen on Round of 16
Osimhen also acknowledged the increased intensity of the knockout stages, describing the Round of 16 as a major test of character.
“The round of 16 is going to be even tougher than the group stages, so the boys are ready to give everything,” he said.
With Nigeria finishing runners-up at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, Osimhen made it clear that the squad is driven by a single ambition.
“It has been a long time since this trophy came to Nigeria. Every training, we remind ourselves that we came here to win it,” he said.
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