The Super Eagles of Nigeria on Saturday night claimed the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Egypt 4–2 on penalties in Casablanca, Morocco.
The third-place match ended goalless after 90 minutes before Nigeria prevailed in the shoot-out, the same scoreline by which they were eliminated by hosts Morocco in the semi-final.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was the hero of the night, saving two penalties, including efforts from Egypt captain Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, to secure Nigeria’s ninth bronze medal in AFCON history. Salah, one of Africa’s greatest players, leaves the tournament without a medal.
Nwabali’s brilliant display earned him the Man of the Match award, as confirmed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) shortly after the game.
In the shoot-out, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru missed Nigeria’s opening kick. However, Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman all converted their penalties, with Lookman sealing the victory with a confident final strike.
The shoot-out was the 48th penalty decider in AFCON history and the third at the 2025 tournament, following earlier shoot-outs in the quarter-finals and Nigeria’s semi-final clash with Morocco.
Egypt were without suspended players Marwan Attia and Salah Mohsen, while Nigeria rested captain Wilfred Ndidi and striker Victor Osimhen. Calvin Bassey also served a suspension, which saw Moses Simon wear the captain’s armband. Lookman and Iwobi were introduced in the second half.
Nigeria thought they had taken the lead in the 36th minute when Paul Onuachu headed in a cross from Samuel Chukwueze, but the goal was ruled out by VAR for a foul.
Egypt dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances, managing just one shot on target in 90 minutes. Nigeria were more threatening, recording five shots on target, while both teams remained solid defensively. Moroccan fans in the stadium openly backed Nigeria, increasing the pressure on the Egyptians.
Historically, Egypt have enjoyed the upper hand against Nigeria, but this victory improves Nigeria’s record and adds another medal to their AFCON history.
Nigeria finished the tournament with 14 goals scored and four conceded, while Egypt scored nine goals and conceded four.
Nigeria are three-time AFCON champions, having won the title in 1980, 1994 and 2013, and have now collected five silver medals and nine bronze medals. Egypt remain the most successful nation in AFCON history with seven titles.
The AFCON final will be played between hosts Morocco and Senegal in Rabat.
Nigeria will receive their bronze medals after the final during the official award ceremony.
