Nigeria’s Super Eagles claimed third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after edging seven-time champions Egypt 4–2 on penalties following a goalless draw in regulation time on Saturday.
The bronze-medal encounter, played in Morocco, was a tense and tactical affair, with both sides cancelling each other out over 90 minutes despite periods of sustained pressure and several near chances.
Head coach Eric Chelle made bold selection choices, leaving star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman on the bench at kick-off, opting instead for a more compact and disciplined setup.
The Super Eagles dominated spells of possession but struggled to find a decisive breakthrough against a resolute Egyptian defence.
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Nigeria thought they had taken the lead in the first half when Akor Adams headed home from a Samuel Chukwueze cross, but the goal was overturned after a VAR review, with Paul Onuachu booked in the aftermath.
Egypt also had moments of promise, with Mohamed Salah pulling the strings, but goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali remained assured between the posts.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Nigeria pressing patiently and Egypt threatening on the counter. Substitutions, including the introduction of Lookman and Alex Iwobi, added fresh energy, but clear-cut chances remained scarce as the match ended goalless.
The deadlock forced a penalty shootout, where the Super Eagles showed greater composure. Nigeria converted four of their kicks, while Egypt missed twice, handing the Super Eagles a 4–2 victory from the spot.
The win secured Nigeria’s ninth AFCON bronze medal and provided a positive end to their 2025 campaign after the disappointment of a semi-final exit on penalties.
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