Nigeria vs Mozambique: Nwabali, Lookman return as Super Eagles face the Mambas in AFCON Round of 16

First-choice goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, and Ademola Lookman are set to return to the starting line-up as Nigeria take on Mozambique in a Round of 16 showdown at the Complexe Sportif de Fez on Monday.

Group C winners Nigeria will continue their quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title when they take on Mozambique.

After cruising through the group stage with a perfect record, the Super Eagles are widely regarded as one of the tournament favourites, while Mozambique enters the knockout phase as one of the best third-placed teams.

Nigeria’s squad depth has been one of their standout strengths at AFCON 2025, highlighted by a heavily rotated side that still secured a convincing 3–1 win over Uganda in their final group match.

However, with the knockout rounds underway, Chelle is expected to revert to his preferred XI.

Victor Osimhen, who scored earlier in the tournament against Tunisia, is set to lead the line once again despite a relatively quiet group stage by his standards.

The Galatasaray striker is expected to be supported by Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams, both of whom were rested last time out.

In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi is likely to anchor the side alongside Alex Iwobi, while Samuel Chukwueze could return to add creativity and pace.

At the back, Chelle is expected to reinstate the familiar defensive quartet of Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Bright Osayi-Samuel with Stanley Nwabali continuing in goal.

Nigeria remains without Cyriel Dessers through injury, while Ryan Alebiosu, who made his debut against Uganda, is also unavailable.

Nwabali; Onyemaechi, Ajayi, Bassey, Osayi-Samuel; Ndidi, Iwobi, Chukwueze; Adams, Lookman; Osimhen