Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was the hero as Nigeria concluded their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Egypt in the third-place playoff on Saturday, securing the bronze medal.

The match kicked off with Nigeria taking the early initiative, looking to exploit spaces down the flanks through Samuel Chukwueze and Bright Osayi-Samuel.

Egypt responded with patient build-up play, using Trezeguet and Mostafa Mohamed to probe the Nigerian defence.

Both teams created openings, but goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Oufa Shobeir remained alert, keeping the first half goalless.

In the 36th minute, Akor Adams rose highest to meet a lofted pass from Chukwueze and headed goalwards, only for VAR to intervene and rule the goal out for a foul in the build-up.

Nigeria continued to press, but another effort by Ademola Lookman in the second half was also disallowed for offside.

Egypt had their moments as Mohamed Salah and Emam Ashour tested the Nigerian defence, including a late penalty appeal which was overturned after a VAR review.

As regulation time ended 0-0, the match moved to penalties. Nigeria struck first, with Akor Adams confidently converting his spot-kick.

Moses Simon followed with a precise finish, while Alex Iwobi slotted his attempt low into the corner. 

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru missed Nigeria’s only attempt, but Ademola Lookman calmly converted the final kick to seal victory. E

gypt managed to convert two penalties through Rami Rabia and Mahmoud Saber, while Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush missed their efforts.

The win ensured the Super Eagles finished the tournament on a high note, claiming the bronze medal.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: efa.com.eg