The Digest:
Mozambique midfielder Manuel Kambala has boldly declared his team's intention to stun Nigeria and progress to the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals, vowing they will not be returning home after the match.
Key Points:
- Manuel Kambala stated, "I believe we will not return to Mozambique on January 5th," predicting an upset victory.
- Mozambique is making its first-ever appearance in the AFCON knockout stage after a dramatic group-phase win over Gabon.
- Nigeria holds a dominant historical record, with Mozambique never having beaten the Super Eagles in five attempts.
- Kambala dismissed past results, emphasizing the current squad has "already shown on the field" they are not just participants.
- The Super Eagles topped their group with three wins but have shown defensive vulnerabilities, conceding four goals.
- Nigeria will be without injured forward Cyriel Dessers but retains attacking power in Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
- The Round of 16 match is scheduled for Monday, January 5, in Fès, Morocco.
Sources: Soccernet, Complete Sports
