Nigeria claimed the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Egypt 4–2 on penalties in the third-place match following a tense 90 minutes of action-packed football.
Both sides were locked in a hard-fought contest that produced no goals in regulation time, forcing the match to be decided by a penalty shootout.
The Super Eagles showed greater composure from the spot, with Akor Adams opening Nigeria’s account by calmly sending the Egyptian goalkeeper the wrong way. Egypt’s captain, Mohamed Sabah, saw his effort saved by Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who would go on to produce a brilliant performance in the shootout.
Moses Simon, who captained the Super Eagles on the night, confidently converted Nigeria’s third kick, while Alex Iwobi followed with a beautifully struck effort to keep Nigeria in control. Egypt managed to convert two of their penalties through Mahmoud Sabeh and another teammate, but their hopes were dented when Nwabali saved a second spot kick.
Ademola Lookman, who impressed throughout the tournament, stepped up to take Nigeria’s decisive penalty and calmly slotted home to seal a 4–2 shootout victory.
The win hands Nigeria their 10th third-place finish in AFCON history. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was named Man of the Match after his heroic display, saving two Egyptian penalties to secure the bronze medal for the Super Eagles.
