Nigeria’s Super Eagles ended their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign on a high note after defeating Egypt in a dramatic penalty shootout to claim the tournament’s third-place prize.
The match carried added tension for Nigeria, who were looking to bounce back from their painful semi-final exit just days earlier, when they lost to tournament hosts Morocco on penalties.
Determined not to suffer the same fate twice, the Super Eagles approached the shootout against the Pharaohs with renewed confidence and composure.
That resolve was rewarded thanks to goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who delivered a standout performance when it mattered most. The shot-stopper produced two crucial saves, denying Egyptian stars Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, and swinging the momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favour.
Nigeria went on to convert four of their spot-kicks, while Egypt managed only two, sealing a 4–2 victory in the shootout and sparking celebrations among the Nigerian players and supporters.
The result earned Nigeria their ninth third-place finish in Africa Cup of Nations history, underlining the Super Eagles’ reputation as one of the continent’s most consistent and successful national teams.
Attention now turns to the tournament’s grand finale, which will take place on Saturday, as hosts Morocco face Senegal in the battle for the AFCON 2025 title.
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