Nigeria to Face One of the Best Third-Placed Teams in Fez on January 5.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have stormed into the AFCON 2025 knockout stage as Group C winners, securing a perfect record ahead of their final group game against Uganda on December 30. The three-time champions now turn attention to the Round of 16, where they will face one of the four best third-placed teams – specifically from Groups A, B, or F per the tournament bracket.

The matchup is scheduled for January 5, 2026, at the Fez Stadium in Morocco. Current permutations point to three main possibilities:

  • Mozambique (currently leading third-placed rankings with points from their historic first-ever AFCON win) – the most probable opponent if they hold or improve their position.
  • Cameroon (five-time champions, strong contenders in Group F) – a blockbuster if they finish third.
  • Angola – still in contention but needing favorable results to qualify as third.

Final group games in relevant sections (including Mozambique vs Cameroon and outcomes affecting Angola) will determine the exact opponent by December 31/January 1.

Coach Eric Chelle is expected to rotate against Uganda to manage player loads and yellow card risks (e.g., Osimhen, Lookman on bookings), keeping the squad fresh for the knockouts.

A potential revenge tie against Cameroon (who knocked Nigeria out in 2021) or a historic clash with Mozambique would add extra spice. The Super Eagles are flying high – who stands in their way next?