AFCON 2025: Nwabali the Hero as Nigeria Defeat Egypt on Penalties to Claim Bronze
Casablanca, Morocco | Saturday, 17 January 2026
Nigeria’s Super Eagles ended their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 campaign with a bronze medal after overcoming Egypt 4–2 on penalties following a goalless draw in Casablanca.
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Nwabali shines in penalty shootout
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the decisive figure, producing two crucial penalty saves that shifted the momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favor.
After Nigeria’s opening spot kick was saved by Egypt goalkeeper Ouba Shobeir, Nwabali responded brilliantly by denying Egyptian stars Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
Successful penalties from Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman sealed the Super Eagles’ victory.
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Few chances in a balanced contest
The third-place playoff was tightly contested, with both teams showing strong defensive organization and patience.
Egypt came closest when Salah released Mahmoud “Trezeguet” Hassan through on goal, but Nwabali reacted quickly to smother the chance.
Nigeria thought they had taken the lead before halftime when Akor Adams headed home from close range, but the goal was overturned following a VAR review.
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Nigeria press after halftime
Early in the second half, substitute Ademola Lookman finished clinically, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
Attempts from Raphael Onyedika and Moses Simon followed, though Egypt goalkeeper Shobeir remained solid.
With neither side able to score after 90 minutes, penalties were required to decide the outcome.
Post-match reactions
Stanley Nwabali (Man of the Match):
“It was a very difficult match. I stayed calm during the penalties and trusted my instincts. This victory belongs to the whole team.”Hossam Hassan (Egypt Head Coach):
“Both teams were disciplined. Penalties decided the match, but I am proud of my players’ effort.”Eric Chelle (Nigeria Head Coach):
“This result reflects the character of the team. It is part of a long journey, and we will build on it.”
Match Summary
- Match: Nigeria vs Egypt
- Score: 0–0 (Nigeria win 4–2 on penalties)
- Competition: TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 – Third-Place Playoff
- Venue: Casablanca, Morocco
- Man of the Match: Stanley Nwabali
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