Afcon 2025: Nigeria edge past Pharoahs of Egypt on penalties to clinch third place consolatory prize
Oluwasetemi Adeyinkap
Nigeria wrapped up their AFCON campaign edging past Egypt on penalties to claim third place after a tense, goalless contest in regulation time. With neither side able to break the deadlock, the bronze-medal match was decided by nerve and precision from the spot.
The penalty shootout saw Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman all convert for the Super Eagles, helping secure the win , after an early miss and two crucial saves by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, whose calm presence and quick reactions ultimately tilted the contest in Nigeria’s favour.
Beyond the result, the match reflected a response built on character and resolve following the semi-final setback against Morocco. Nigeria remained disciplined, compact, and patient, refusing to let disappointment define their tournament finale.
In an interview with Sahel Sports News, fans were quick to acknowledge that resilience.
READ EXCERPTS
Question: How would you describe Nigeria’s performance against Egypt?
Mr Adebola: “It wasn’t flashy, but it was solid. After the Morocco loss, this was about pride, and the boys showed it.”
The tension intensified as the match moved into penalties, with every kick carrying the weight of expectation.
Question : The match went to penalties. What was going through your mind during the shootout?
Mr Francis: “Pure tension. Penalties are mental, and Nigeria handled it better. That’s growth.”
Securing third place may not have been the ultimate target, but the victory over Egypt offered a meaningful close to Nigeria’s AFCON journey, one that highlighted mental strength, squad depth, and belief in the project moving forward.
