Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the standout player as Nigeria wrapped up their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 4-2 victory in a penalty shootout against Egypt in the third-place playoff on Saturday, earning the bronze medal.
The match began with Nigeria taking the initiative, seeking to exploit the flanks through Samuel Chukwueze and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Egypt responded with a methodical approach, utilizing Trezeguet and Mostafa Mohamed to test the Nigerian defense.
Both teams had chances, but goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Oufa Shobeir were vigilant, resulting in a scoreless first half.
In the 36th minute, Akor Adams headed a lofted pass from Chukwueze towards goal, but VAR intervened to disallow the goal due to a foul in the buildup.
Nigeria continued to apply pressure, but another attempt by Ademola Lookman in the second half was ruled offside.
Egypt also had opportunities, with Mohamed Salah and Emam Ashour challenging the Nigerian defense, including a late penalty appeal that was overturned after a VAR review.
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With the match ending 0-0 after regulation time, it proceeded to penalties. Nigeria took the lead, with Akor Adams confidently converting his penalty.
Moses Simon followed with a precise shot, and Alex Iwobi placed his attempt low into the corner.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was the only Nigerian player to miss, but Ademola Lookman calmly converted the final penalty to secure the win.
Egypt managed to score two penalties through Rami Rabia and Mahmoud Saber, while Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush both missed their attempts.
This victory ensured the Super Eagles concluded the tournament on a positive note, claiming the bronze medal.
