RABAT – MONDAY’S round of 16 in the Africa Cup of Nations delivered drama, quality goals and a clearer picture of the teams moving into the quarterfinals.
Nigeria and Egypt both booked their spots with contrasting performances, showcasing attacking firepower and resilience respectively.
In Fez, Nigeria dismantled Mozambique 4–0 in emphatic fashion. Ademola Lookman was a standout, scoring and creating multiple chances, while Victor Osimhen netted twice to underline his status as one of Africa’s elite forwards.
Nigeria’s attacking interplay and clinical finishing highlighted their strength, though defensive organization remained solid throughout.
This dominant display positions the Super Eagles as one of the favourites for a deep run — especially if they can maintain cohesion and avoid serious pressure from elite opposition.
Elsewhere, Egypt edged past Benin 3–1 after extra time in a tighter contest. Marwan Attia’s long-range goal opened the scoring, and although Benin equalised late, Egypt’s experience shone through.
Defender Yasser Ibrahim’s first international goal and a composed finish from Mohamed Salah — his third of the tournament — sealed the win.
Egypt showed resilience and tactical discipline but also highlighted a reliance on individual brilliance in key moments rather than consistent fluid play.
Elsewhere in the knockouts, Cameroon beat South Africa 2–1 to reach the quarterfinals against hosts Morocco.
The Indomitable Lions combined defensive solidity with clever transitions, while South Africa’s wastefulness in front of goal proved costly.
Morocco, already through after a narrow 1–0 win over Tanzania, now host this big tie without midfielder Azzedine Ounahi due to injury, which slightly blunts their creativity.
Looking ahead to the quarterfinals, the scheduled ties are shaping up as follows:
Morocco vs Cameroon: Morocco’s home advantage and technical quality give them an edge, but Cameroon’s disciplined defending and counterattacks make them a real threat.
Nigeria vs Winner of Algeria/DR Congo: Nigeria’s potent attack could outpace either opponent; if defensive discipline holds, a semi-final berth is likely.
Egypt vs Côte d’Ivoire/Burkina Faso: Egypt’s tactical nous and Salah’s finishing are key, but they must avoid sloppy transitions against the physicality of Burkina Faso or the experience of Côte d’Ivoire.
Senegal vs Mali (or equivalent fixture): Senegal have the individual stars and depth to pull through, though Mali’s tactical organisation can frustrate.
As the tournament intensifies, attacking quality and squad balance will be decisive, with Nigeria and Morocco among the best-placed teams to advance to the semi-finals.
– CAJ News
