In a bold move to motivate his national team, Mozambique's President Daniel Francisco Chapo has promised a significant financial reward if the Mambas can pull off a major upset against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations knockout match.
Historic Qualification Meets a Daunting Task
The Mozambican national team, known as the Mambas, scripted history by qualifying for the AFCON 2025 Round of 16 for the very first time. They achieved this feat from a formidable Group F that included heavyweights Cote d'Ivoire, Cameroon, and Gabon.
After an opening 1-0 loss to defending champions Cote d'Ivoire, the Mambas secured a historic 3-2 victory over Gabon in their second match. This win was crucial, ultimately allowing them to progress as one of the best third-placed teams despite a 2-1 loss to Cameroon in their final group game.
Their reward for this historic achievement is a date with one of the tournament's most impressive sides. Nigeria's Super Eagles won all three of their group stage matches, joining Algeria as the only teams with a perfect record. They defeated Tanzania 2-1, Tunisia 3-2, and Uganda 3-1 to top their group.
The Presidential Incentive for an Upset
Recognizing the scale of the challenge ahead, President Chapo has directly intervened to boost the squad's morale. In a message to the team, he expressed immense national pride.
"We are very proud of you, our brave compatriots, for our encouraging performance in the group stage of CAN Morocco 2025, which led us to qualify, by merit, for the Round of 16," President Chapo stated, as reported by Jornal Noticias.
He extended congratulations on behalf of the Mozambican people for this "historic and unprecedented feat." To further galvanize the players, he attached a tangible incentive: a promise of 500,000 metical (approximately ₦11.3 million) as a bonus if they defeat Nigeria.
"The Mozambican nation is with you, and we have faith that you will prevail in the Round of 16," Chapo added, setting the stage for a high-stakes encounter.
Super Eagles Aim to Avoid Past Mistakes
While the Super Eagles are clear favourites on paper, the team and its supporters are wary of past upsets. The scenario is reminiscent of AFCON 2021, where Nigeria won all group games but suffered a shocking elimination in the Round of 16.
This history serves as a cautionary tale, ensuring that the Nigerian side will likely not underestimate the motivated Mambas. The match is scheduled for January 5, 2026, as confirmed by the knockout stage draw released by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The clash promises to be a compelling contest between a team riding a wave of historic achievement and presidential support, and a tournament heavyweight determined to avoid a famous pitfall and continue its quest for a fourth AFCON title.
