Nigeria Defeat Egypt Again to Extend Historic Tournament Record

Super Eagles Clinch AFCON 2025 Bronze After Penalty Drama

Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday, January 17, 2026, after edging Egypt in a tense third place playoff decided by penalties.

The match ended scoreless after regulation time, with Nigeria prevailing 4–2 in the shootout following a dramatic evening of missed chances and VAR controversy.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali delivered a heroic performance, earning Man of the Match honors after saving two decisive penalties from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.

Ademola Lookman calmly converted the final spot kick to seal victory, despite having a second half goal ruled out for offside.
Earlier, Akor Adams also saw his first half strike disallowed after VAR judged a foul in the build up.

The win secured Nigeria a record extending ninth AFCON bronze medal and preserved their unbeaten record in third place matches. It also marked Nigeria’s 17th overall podium finish in AFCON history, underlining their long standing consistency on the continental stage.

Adding to the achievement, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles claimed bronze at the 2025 U 20 AFCON, again defeating Egypt on penalties. The double success highlighted Nigeria’s strength across senior and youth international competitions.