Lookman shines as Nigeria gets quarter-finals slot after 4-0 win over Mozambique

Nigeria booked their place in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations with a commanding 4–0 victory over Mozambique in the last-16 tie played on Monday in Fes. 

The three-time champions were in control for long spells and underlined their status as one of the tournament favourites with a confident and clinical display.

The Super Eagles made their early dominance count in the 20th minute when Ademola Lookman opened the scoring, finishing from close range after good work by Akor Adams down the right. 

Five minutes later, Victor Osimhen doubled the lead, giving Mozambique a mountain to climb before the break as Nigeria went into half-time two goals ahead.

Any hopes of a comeback were effectively ended shortly after the restart. 

Osimhen struck again in the 47th minute, reacting quickest inside the box to claim his second goal of the night and his third of the tournament, further tightening Nigeria’s grip on the contest.

Mozambique defended bravely but struggled to cope with Nigeria’s pace and movement in attack. 

Goalkeeper Ernan was called into action several times to prevent the scoreline from growing, producing a number of sharp saves as Nigeria continued to press forward.

The fourth goal arrived with 15 minutes remaining, and it was fully deserved. Akor Adams, who had already provided two assists, capped an excellent performance by powering a fierce shot past the goalkeeper to complete a dominant team display and secure Nigeria’s first clean sheet of the tournament.

The result sends Nigeria into the quarter-finals for the 12th time since the stage was introduced in 1992. They will now face either Algeria or DR Congo on Saturday in Marrakech, as they continue their pursuit of a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title.

The only downside to the game was the subtle clash between Ademola Lookman and Victor Osihmen before the Galatasaray striker was substituted.