Sports
Super Eagles Unleash Continental Fury: Nigeria Thrashes Mozambique 4–0 to Storm into AFCON 2025 Quarter-Finals
Super Eagles Unleash Continental Fury: Nigeria Thrashes Mozambique 4–0 to Storm into AFCON 2025 Quarter-Finals.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
“A Commanding Display of Tactical Mastery, Clinical Finishing and Renewed Nigerian National Pride.”
In a masterclass of attacking football that sent shockwaves through African football in the early hours of January 6, 2026, the Super Eagles of Nigeria powered their way into the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 quarter-finals with a sensational and emphatic 4–0 rout of Mozambique at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco. What unfolded was not merely a win but a statement and a powerful declaration that Nigeria’s continental ambitions are both real and formidable.
At a tournament brimming with talent and tactical nuance, Nigeria’s performance stood head and shoulders above most others. This was a match where every key facet of elite football through precision attacking, strategic discipline, relentless pressure and defensive assurance, combined to form a vivid portrait of what a great team looks like. The Super Eagles dominated from the first whistle to the final minute, leaving their fans euphoric and their rivals wary.
The Eagles Take Flight: A Tactical and Technical Breakdown.
From kick-off, Nigeria approached this Round of 16 encounter with intent and purpose. Coached by Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles’ formation intelligently blended experienced campaigners with rising stars, yielding a fluid and aggressive attacking unit that Mozambique’s defense could seldom contain.
Early Control and Opening Salvo.
The first breakthrough came in the 20th minute when former African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman (a talismanic presence throughout the tournament) opened the scoring with a composed finish inside the box after being expertly set up by Akor Adams. Lookman’s composure and technical quality were on full display as he calmly dispatched a low-driven strike past the Mozambican goalkeeper, setting the tone for what would become total Nigerian ascendancy.
Just five minutes later, Nigeria’s juggernaut struck again. Victor Osimhen, the towering talisman leading the line, doubled the advantage with a powerful finish following a slick Nigeria build-up. The Super Eagles had not only tested Mozambique but they had begun to overwhelm them.
Osimhen’s Power, Lookman’s Creativity and Adams’ Precision.
Any great team needs a leader and in this Nigerian side, Victor Osimhen has increasingly personified that role. The Galatasaray striker, known for his physicality, intelligent movement and clinical finishing, added his second of the evening just after the break in the 47th minute. Assisted again by Lookman, Osimhen’s finish was a textbook striker’s goal which was precise, composed and devastatingly effective.
But this Portuguese-born victory was not merely about star individuals; it was about collective excellence. Lookman, often described by analysts as “the heartbeat of Nigeria’s attack,” was as much creator as scorer though his interplay, vision and intelligent movement kept Mozambique’s defenders constantly second-guessing. And Akor Adams, with a powerful late finish in the 75th minute, sealed the emphatic scoreline and underscored Nigeria’s ruthless edge.
Defensive Solidity and Midfield Balance.
While the goals rightly grabbed headlines, Nigeria’s defensive organization was equally impressive. Led by Stanley Nwabali between the posts and marshaled by the likes of Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi at the back, the Super Eagles kept a clean sheet and a notable achievement in a high-stakes knockout match. Mozambique’s efforts rarely breached Nigeria’s defensive lines, as the hosts’ back unit read the game with composure and tactical intelligence.
Midfield enforcers like Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi ensured Nigeria retained balance, ball control and tempo. Their presence allowed Nigeria to build attacks methodically while ensuring defensive transitions were swift and secure, a hallmark of well-drilled teams.
What the Victory Means: Beyond Goals and Glory.
Nigeria’s 4–0 triumph was more than a dominant scoreboard result, it marked a psychological turning point. This was the biggest margin of victory in the knockout stages of AFCON 2025 to date and it showcased a Super Eagles side capable of combining flair with tactical maturity.
Football pundit Samuel Uche, a respected African football analyst, noted in his post-match commentary that:
“What we saw tonight was not just a victory; it was a blueprint of how modern African football should be played with incisive, intelligent and unapologetically ambitious. Nigeria has grabbed the narrative and refused to let go.”
Such sentiments capture the intellectual and emotional weight of this performance. In a tournament where tactical sophistication meets raw African passion, Nigeria’s display stands as a beacon of progress. Their goals tally in this edition has surged, and their attacking cohesion suggests they are not mere contenders but they are contenders with an identity.
Historical Context and Nigeria’s AFCON Legacy.
To fully appreciate this win, it must be set against Nigeria’s rich AFCON history. The Super Eagles are three-time AFCON champions (lifting the title in 1980, 1994, and 2013) and have long been one of Africa’s most celebrated footballing nations.
Yet for all that legacy, the quest for a fourth title has been an elusive dream in recent years. Nigeria’s journey at AFCON has been marked by dramatic highs and frustrating exits. This emphatic quarter-final qualification, therefore, resonates not only as a statistical triumph but as a narrative reclamation with a reaffirmation that Nigeria’s football identity remains potent and relevant on the African stage.
Voices From the Camp: A Renewed Sense of Purpose.
In a tournament echoing with echoes of tactical evolution and national pride, players and analysts alike have spoken with clarity and conviction.
Veteran midfielder Alex Iwobi, speaking to media after the match, said:
“We knew this was a big game. Mozambique played with courage, but we believed in our plan. This result is about discipline and discipline in attack, in defense and in heart.”
Such reflections underscore the blend of mental fortitude and technical execution that has become the hallmark of this Nigerian squad.
Football strategist Professor Emeka Okafor, an academic expert in sports psychology, notes:
“Nigeria’s performance was not just about athleticism, it was built on collective belief and strategic clarity. When players understand their roles and share a unified vision, performances like this follow.”
These kinds of statements provide intellectual weight and contextual depth to what the Super Eagles have achieved, not only as athletes, but as ambassadors of a proud footballing nation.
Eyes on the Quarter-Finals and Beyond.
Having booked their place in the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals, Nigeria now prepares to face a new challenge against the winner of the Algeria vs. DR Congo tie. This next hurdle will test not just their scoring prowess but also their resilience, tactical flexibility and psychological resolve.
Though if their performance against Mozambique is any indication, the Super Eagles are ready. They have shown that when tactical intelligence meets clinical execution, Nigeria can soar to heights not witnessed in recent AFCON tournaments.
In football (as in life) triumph is not a product of chance; it is the reward of preparation, courage and belief. On this night in Fès, the Super Eagles exemplified every one of these qualities. And as the continent watches with anticipation, Nigeria’s journey continues and with fire in their hearts and glory in their sights.
Champions of a Continent: The Definitive History of AFCON Winners.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com
“How the Africa Cup of Nations Forged Footballing Giants and United a Diverse Continent Through Sport.”
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is far more than a biennial football tournament; it is Africa’s premier sporting crucible — where history is shaped, legends are born, and national pride is affirmed. Since its inception in 1957, this tournament has woven itself into the social, political, and cultural fabric of the continent. From the dusty pitches of early competitions to packed modern stadiums echoing with tens of thousands of passionate supporters, AFCON encapsulates both the struggle and the triumph inherent in African identity.
In attempting to fully understand the legacy of AFCON champions, one must appreciate not only who won but why these victories mattered which is culturally, geopolitically and emotionally for entire nations. As celebrated African football historian Dr. Mamadou Diouf of Cheikh Anta Diop University once observed, “In Africa, football is more than a game; it is narrative and identity articulated on grass.” This perspective is critical when chronicling the elite list of nations that have lifted the famed CAF trophy.
AFCON: A Legacy of Champions. From its inaugural tournament in 1957, when Egypt defeated Ethiopia 4–0 to claim the first crown, AFCON has showcased a remarkable blend of continuity and change in African football.
Encyclopedia Britannica
What follows is a chronologically accurate and fully verified inventory of AFCON winners and each a chapter in the tournament’s storied history:
1957 – Egypt (4–0 vs. Ethiopia)
1959 – Egypt (2–1 vs. Sudan)
1962 – Ethiopia (4–2 vs. Egypt)
1963 – Ghana (3–0 vs. Sudan)
1965 – Ghana (3–2 vs. Tunisia)
1968 – DR Congo (1–0 vs. Ghana)
1970 – Sudan (3–2 vs. Ghana)
1972 – Congo (3–2 vs. Mali)
1974 – Zaire (2–0 vs. Zambia)
1976 – Morocco (Champion)
1978 – Ghana (2–0 vs. Uganda)
1980 – Nigeria (3–0 vs. Algeria)
1982 – Ghana (on penalties vs. Libya)
1984 – Cameroon (3–1 vs. Nigeria)
1986 – Egypt (on penalties vs. Cameroon)
1988 – Cameroon (1–0 vs. Nigeria)
1990 – Algeria (1–0 vs. Nigeria)
1992 – Ivory Coast (on penalties vs. Ghana)
1994 – Nigeria (vs. Zambia)
1996 – South Africa (2–0 vs. Tunisia)
1998 – Egypt (2–0 vs. South Africa)
2000 – Cameroon (won on penalties vs. Nigeria)
2002 – Cameroon (on penalties vs. Senegal)
2004 – Tunisia (2–1 vs. Morocco)
2006 – Egypt
2008 – Egypt
2010 – Egypt
2012 – Zambia
2013 – Nigeria
2015 – Ivory Coast
2017 – Cameroon
2019 – Algeria
2021 – Senegal
2023 – Ivory Coast
This list, verified across multiple authoritative sports histories, shows Egypt standing atop the roll of honour with seven AFCON titles, a remarkable feat spanning six decades of competition.
Powerhouses of the Continent. The AFCON champions list reads like a Who’s Who of African football excellence:
Egypt — The Pharaohs boast a record seven championships (1957, 1959, 1986, 1998, 2006, 2008, 2010), leading the continent in titles and consistency. Their early dominance set the template for African footballing success.
Cameroon — With five titles, the Indomitable Lions established themselves as a juggernaut, particularly during the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Ghana — Their four triumphs reflect a deep-rooted football culture, though recent decades have seen the Black Stars struggle to reclaim past glories.
Nigeria and Ivory Coast, both nations share three championships each, highlighting West Africa’s historical strength on the continental stage.
Algeria, DR Congo, Zambia, Tunisia, Senegal, Sudan, Morocco, South Africa. A diverse set of champions that demonstrates the truly pan-African nature of the competition.
This broad distribution of champions speaks to AFCON’s competitive balance, a tournament where footballing pedigree, tactical evolution, and sheer national will collide. As noted by CAF technical director Salim Ahmed, “AFCON is the purest expression of African football; it doesn’t reward tradition alone, but heart, innovation, and resilience.”
Moments that Shaped the Tournament. Egypt’s Triple Crown (2006–2010): Few national teams have dominated like Egypt did with three consecutive titles which is a testament to tactical discipline and unyielding confidence. Legends such as Mohamed Aboutrika and captain Ahmed Hassan became synonymous with this golden era.
Nigeria’s 1980 Home Glory & 2013 Revival: Winning AFCON on home soil in 1980 marked Nigeria’s emergence as a continental powerhouse. A generation later, the 2013 triumph under Stephen Keshi symbolised African footballing ingenuity and a local coach guiding his team to glory against all odds.
South Africa’s 1996 Breakthrough: Fresh from the end of apartheid, South Africa’s 1996 win signified more than a football title and it was a moment of profound national healing and global recognition.
Zambia’s 2012 Triumph: Zambia’s win stands as one of AFCON’s most emotional victories, occurring near the site of the 1993 air disaster that claimed the national team’s lives. Journalist Dominic Chanda aptly described it as “a victory not just for sport, but for collective memory and perseverance.”
Senegal’s Recent Ascendance: Senegal’s 2021 title, anchored by stars like Sadio Mané, reflects West Africa’s consistent push toward footballing excellence on the global stage.
AFCON’s Broader Impact. The significance of AFCON transcends statistics. Sporting sociologist Professor Aisha Bello rightly asserts, “Football in Africa is a lingua franca; AFCON is its grand symposium where nations articulate hope, contest identity, and assert presence on the global stage.” AFCON champions are not just victors of a tournament and they are carriers of continental aspiration.
Unity Through Competition:
In a continent often scrutinised through the lens of its challenges, AFCON provides a narrative of resilience and unity. Millions watch not merely to see goals but to witness nations affirm their dignity.
Economic and Developmental Impact:
Championship runs boost tourism, stimulate youth engagement in sport, and open diplomatic opportunities. Nations invest in infrastructure, from stadia to training academies, hoping that future champions will emerge from underprivileged neighborhoods.
Role Models and Youth Inspiration: Figures like Didier Drogba, Yaya Touré, Asamoah Gyan, and Mohamed Salah inspire millions of young Africans. Their journeys from local pitches to global arenas underscore sport’s transformative potential.
Looking Ahead. The next AFCON cycle promises to broaden this legacy. As the tournament expands and evolves, new contenders will arise, and historical giants will strive to reaffirm their prestige. The co-hosted 2027 AFCON (set for Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania) signals CAF’s ambition to lift the tournament’s reach even further.
For scholars, fans, and nations alike, AFCON remains more than a championship; it is living history, written every two years in the sweat of players and the roars of supporters. As respected football analyst Jonathan Wilson noted, “Champions are remembered not solely for their trophies, but for how they changed the game, inspired their people, and expanded the realm of possibility.”
In that regard, every AFCON winner (from Egypt’s early dynasty to Ivory Coast’s latest triumph) is a testament to the enduring power of football in forging both excellence and identity.
Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun Receives Award for Philanthropy
In a momentous ceremony held at the highbrow Radisson Blu Hotel in GRA, Ikeja, High Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, widely recognized as IBD Dende, received an illustrious Award of Excellence presented by the City of Brampton, Canada. This prestigious recognition highlights his outstanding contributions to philanthropy, empowerment, and entrepreneurial development in Nigeria, affirming the profound impact he has made on countless lives through his IBD Foundation.
The event was graced by a formal delegation representing the Mayor of Brampton, His Lordship Mayor Patrick Brown, led by Mr. Richard Forward, the Senior Manager of the Financial Advisory Budget Office. During the award presentation, the delegation emphasized Brampton’s dedication to cultivating international partnerships with distinguished leaders like IBD Dende, who is renowned for his philanthropy and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those in need.
The award acknowledged Dende’s extensive philanthropic initiatives, particularly through his IBD Foundation, which has spearheaded transformative projects in various communities throughout Lagos and Ogun States. The recognition also included a formal commendation letter sealed by Mayor Brown, praising Dende’s tireless efforts in economic development, community growth, and his active support for the recently concluded African Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) in Canada, a significant event that was attended by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun.
During the ceremony, Mayor Brown’s representatives delivered a poignant message regarding the importance of recognizing impactful figures within the community, noting, “With a vibrant Nigerian community of approximately 12,000 residents in Brampton, it is vital to spotlight individuals like Chief Dende who are making a tangible difference in the welfare of others.” This statement illustrates Dende’s role as a beacon of hope and progress within the Nigerian diaspora.
The distinguished delegation included Mr. Imadu Maurice, an adviser and community engagement specialist from the Mayor’s Office, and Mrs. Kehinde Adelaja-Okoroafor, Founder of the Make Mee Elegant Foundation. Both speakers highlighted Dende’s deep compassion for the marginalized and his relentless drive to empower them through various initiatives.
As a gesture of ongoing collaboration and mutual support, Mayor Brown extended a warm invitation to Chief Ibrahim to participate in next year’s AMEGI event, set to be hosted by the City of Brampton. This event aims not only to strengthen economic ties but also to empower one thousand women, celebrating the rich contributions of the African diaspora to Canadian society.
Upon receiving the award, Chief Dende articulated his commitment to philanthropy, emphasizing how he has consistently demonstrated his wealth through substantial investments in empowerment initiatives, particularly benefitting the people of Yewa land. He praised Mayor Brown and his administration for their commendable efforts in making Brampton one of the finest cities in Canada, stating, “Your hands-on leadership in championing the Brampton Youth Empowerment Initiative, alongside the recent Affordable Housing Expansion Program, exemplifies public service that truly uplifts its citizens in real time.”
Dende further expressed his enthusiasm for deepening collaborative efforts with the residents of Brampton, especially during his upcoming visit to Canada next year. He hopes to extend his philanthropic and developmental programs to the city, thereby supporting local initiatives and fostering shared prosperity.
“Through the IBD Foundation, our mission remains clear: to restore essential human amenities to communities where they have been lost and to create opportunities where none currently exist. We have invested heavily in educational sponsorships, healthcare interventions, humanitarian relief, rural development, and initiatives to support women-led entrepreneurial ventures. Over the years, we have provided thousands of essential medical treatments, delivered millions of meals to those in need, and supported youth who require encouragement and belief in their potential,” Dende articulated passionately.
For Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, receiving this honour signifies not only individual achievement but also reflects the strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Canadian institutions and Nigerian leaders dedicated to societal improvement and resilience. It stands as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when people come together to uplift their communities.
Why We Signed the Ajanaku Siblings, by European Club NK Jedinstvo Bihać
Nigerian brothers Damilola and Jomiloju Ajanaku have officially joined NK Jedinstvo Bihać, a club competing in the First League of FBiH—the second tier of professional football in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
At a brief and vibrant signing ceremony held on Friday, September 27, the club’s president, Saša Smiljanić, explained that the decision to sign the siblings was based on their individual qualities and the rich footballing pedigree of Nigerian players.
“We decided to sign the two brothers because we recognize the immense talent Nigeria continues to produce—legends like Jay-Jay Okocha, Kanu Nwankwo, and more recently, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, who have both won African Footballer of the Year. We hope Damilola and Jomiloju can replicate that level of excellence, not only for our club but also for their national team,” Smiljanić said.
He also urged the players to give their best in helping the club return to the Premier League, following its relegation in the 2007/2008 season.
The Ajanaku brothers expressed their gratitude to the club’s management for the opportunity and pledged to repay the trust placed in them.
“We’re excited to join this historic club, the first football club in Bihać, founded around 1920. We’re confident we can contribute to the team’s journey back to the Premier League,” said Damilola. Jomiloju also thanked the club president and everyone who made the move possible, acknowledging the support of their family.
“This is a new chapter in our careers, and we’re deeply grateful to our parents for allowing us to pursue our dreams. It’s a big opportunity to showcase our talents and work toward representing Nigeria and playing for top clubs in Europe. We believe joining NK Jedinstvo Bihać will open doors for us in the near future.”
Ajanaku Siblings Sign with European Club NK Jedinstvo Bihać
Nigerian brothers Damilola and Jomiloju Ajanaku have signed with NK Jedinstvo Bihać, a club in the First League of FBiH—the second tier of professional football in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
At a brief but vibrant signing ceremony held on Friday, September 27, the club’s president, Saša Smiljanić, praised the duo’s talent and highlighted Nigeria’s reputation for producing exceptional footballers.
“We decided to sign the two brothers because we recognize the immense talent coming out of Nigeria—players like Jay-Jay Okocha, Kanu Nwankwo, and more recently, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, who have both won African Footballer of the Year. We hope Damilola and Jomiloju can replicate that level of excellence, not just for our club but also for their national team,” Smiljanić said.
He also challenged the siblings to give their best in helping the club return to the Premier League, following its relegation in the 2007/2008 season.
The Ajanaku brothers expressed their gratitude to the club’s management for the opportunity and pledged to repay the trust placed in them.
“We’re excited to join this historic club, the first football club in Bihać, founded around 1920. We’re confident we can contribute to the team’s journey back to the Premier League,” said Damilola.
Jomiloju also thanked the club president and everyone who made the move possible, acknowledging the support of their family.
“This is a new chapter in our careers, and we’re grateful to our parents for allowing us to pursue our dreams. It’s a big opportunity to showcase our talents and work toward representing Nigeria and playing for top clubs in Europe. We believe joining NK Jedinstvo Bihać will open doors for us in the near future.”
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