Dare Babalola
The Super Eagles of Nigeria defeated Egypt 4-2 on penalties to win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 third-place playoff on Saturday.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali proved the hero of the night with two crucial saves during the shootout, including one from Egyptian star Mohamed Salah.
Ademola Lookman then calmly converted the decisive penalty to secure the bronze medal —Nigeria’s ninth third-place finish in AFCON history.
The match itself was a tight, physical affair, high on running but low on clear chances.
Nigeria thought they had taken the lead just before halftime when Paul Onuachu turned in an effort from Akor Adams, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review.
With neither side able to break the deadlock in a cagey second half, the game ended 0-0, sending the contest directly to penalties.
Despite Fisayo Dele-Bashiru missing Nigeria’s first kick, Nwabali’s immediate saved from Egypt’s first two attempts shifted the momentum.
Nigeria’s subsequent takers were flawless, allowing Lookman to seal the victory and preserve Nigeria’s perfect record in AFCON third-place matches.
Nigeria had reached the playoff after a heartbreaking semi-final loss to hosts Morocco on penalties, while Egypt fell 1-0 to Senegal in their last-four clash.
The Eagles topped Group C with victories over Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda before beating Mozambique and Algeria in the knockout rounds. Egypt, seven-time champions, progressed from Group B and eliminated Benin and Ivory Coast before their semi-final defeat.
Saturday’s triumph extended Nigeria’s remarkable dominance in AFCON bronze matches and offered consolation after their near miss in the race for the title.
