Nigeria delivered a commanding performance to sweep aside Mozambique 4-0 and book their place in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations with an emphatic victory in Fès.
It was a powerful all-round showing from the Super Eagles, with several standout individual displays.
Footy-Africa teamed up with former Nigeria defender Abdulkadir Aliyu to rate the top three performers on the night, as well as the three players with the lowest ratings.
Top Ratings
Ademola Lookman (9.5)
The Atalanta forward produced a near-perfect performance against the Mozambicans, scoring one goal and providing two assists.
Fluid, direct, and devastating between the lines, Ademola Lookman tormented defenders all night with his movement, dribbling, and vision.
His assists perfectly complemented the goal that opened the scoring, as he stood at the heart of everything good Nigeria produced.
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Alex Iwobi (9.5)
Another masterclass from the midfield general, who has become the heartbeat of this Super Eagles side.
One of the most experienced players in the squad, Alex Iwobi had the game on a string. Every pass, feint, and turn seemed perfectly timed, as he dictated play and split Mozambique’s defence with ease.
Potential opponents will certainly be taking note, and Nigeria must continue to give him the freedom to express himself.
Akor Adams (9.0)
Restored to the starting line-up, the Sevilla striker played a key role in the victory, setting up the first two goals before getting on the scoresheet himself.
Though he started quietly, Akor Adams grew into the contest, imposing himself with aggression, intelligent movement, and strong hold-up play.
His thunderous finish was a fitting reward for a tireless shift.
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Lowest Ratings
Stanley Nwabali (7.0)
The goalkeeper had little to do and was largely untroubled throughout the match.
However, Stanley Nwabali misjudged the flight of one early corner and appeared slightly indecisive when Mozambique ventured forward, making it difficult to fully assess his performance.
Bruno Onyemaechi (6.5)
The Olympiacos defender, who has taken over from Zaidu Sanusi, endured a mixed outing.
Bruno Onyemaechi struggled to offer much going forward, with several wayward crosses, but worked hard defensively against Mozambique’s most dangerous threat, Geny Catamo, with support from Calvin Bassey.
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Semi Ajayi (6.5)
Semi Ajayi had little defending to do but did not look entirely assured when tested.
The centre-back had a few uncomfortable moments against Fayzal Bangal, and while it did not cost Nigeria on the night, he will need to improve his composure on the ball to aid the team’s build-up play as the tournament progresses.
