Egypt coach Hossam Hassan has expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite missing out on the bronze medal after a penalty shootout defeat to Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations third-place playoff last Saturday.

Although Eric Chelle opted to rest several key players, including Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Osimhen and Frank Onyeka, the Super Eagles further extended their impressive record in third-place matches at the tournament.

After a goalless draw in regulation time, Nigeria prevailed 4-2 on penalties, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali producing a commanding display in the shootout against the record African champions.

The Chippa United shot-stopper, who was named Man of the Match for his outstanding performance, saved two spot-kicks from Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah and Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush.

Speaking at Thursday's press conference, Hossam Hassan admitted the disappointment of falling short of their objective but stressed that there were positives to take from the encounter against Nigeria. 

"Facing Nigeria was certainly a formality, but we were aiming for third place and we lost on penalties, but despite that I am satisfied with the performance," Hossam Hassan was quoted as saying by Fil Goal.

"We must all cooperate during the coming period in order to prepare for the World Cup competitions, and in order for the Egyptian national team to perform well, we must prepare wonderfully."

The Super Eagles have now won eight third-place matches at  the Africa Cup of Nations , a record unmatched by any nation in the competition's history.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel