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.
Host nation Morocco will play Senegal in the final on
Sunday.
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