Mozambique coach Chiquinho Conde has identified Nigeria's attacking firepower as the Super Eagles' greatest strength, while insisting his side must remain calm, organised and fearless to stand a chance against the three-time champions in their Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 clash on Monday evening. 

The Super Eagles finished the Africa Cup of Nations group stage as the tournament’s most prolific side, scoring eight goals in three matches, with the goals shared among six different players.

Ademola Lookman and Raphael Onyedika led the way with two goals apiece, while defender Semi Ajayi, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, and forwards Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu each contributed one goal.

The Mambas manager stressed that his football philosophy is rooted in goals, entertainment and collective responsibility, but acknowledged that defensive discipline will be crucial against a Nigeria side renowned for its attacking quality.

"I try to share these values with my players, which is to score goals, because that's how you win games. You also have to give a big show. At the same time, if you defend well, you can win championships or progress to the next round," Conde told reporters at the pre-match press conference. 

"We have to defend well to be able to attack better. We have fantastic players in the attacking line who can decide the result of the game at any time. But we also know that Nigeria’s strongest strength is their attack."

The former Sporting CP striker highlighted the importance of team shape and focus, warning that any lapse in concentration could be costly against the Super Eagles.

"If we are not well focused and well positioned defensively, it will be very difficult. It doesn’t mean only the defenders have to do the job. We need the whole system to work, with very good organisation from the beginning.

"For us to be able to do this, the players must be calm, with no pressure. They shouldn't be scared to make mistakes. They just need to play football, have fun and make the fans enjoy the game.

"A happy player wins all the time. When I look at my players and see them happy, I become calm because I know they will be able to deliver."

The Mozambique coach underlined that the Mambas respect the Super Eagles, and also highlighted the historic significance of Monday's match.

"We are humble and we respect our opponent. But we also have the ambition of making history for our people. We want to write our names in capital letters in Mozambique football history.

"This is a big opportunity for us to play against a fantastic and big opponent. There’s nothing like beating a big team like that."

The winner of the Nigeria versus Mozambique encounter will advance to the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations, where they will face either Algeria or the Democratic Republic of Congo at the Marrakesh Stadium on Saturday, January 10.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel