Nigeria ended their Africa Cup of Nations campaign on a high note after edging past Egypt 4–2 on penalties to secure the bronze medal following a scoreless draw in regulation time.
The third-place playoff, played before an energetic crowd of 38,113 spectators, lived up to expectations as two African football giants battled intensely but failed to find the net during open play.
The Super Eagles came close to taking the lead in the first half when Akor Adams headed home from close range, but the effort was cancelled after a VAR review ruled a foul in the build-up.
Egypt, inspired by captain Mohamed Salah, enjoyed more possession for large spells but found it difficult to break down Nigeria’s disciplined defence. Salah posed occasional danger with balls into the box, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali stood firm whenever called upon.
As the match progressed, Nigeria grew in confidence, with Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon stretching the Egyptian defence with their pace and width on the flanks.
Early in the second half, Ademola Lookman appeared to have broken the deadlock for Nigeria, only for VAR to intervene once again, this time for offside, as frustration mounted for the Super Eagles.
With neither side able to produce a decisive moment after 90 minutes, the contest was settled via penalties, where Nigeria showed superior composure.
Successful spot-kicks from Akor Adams, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman gave Nigeria the upper hand in the shootout.
Egypt’s challenge faltered after misses from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, allowing Lookman’s calm finish to seal the victory and ignite celebrations among Nigerian players and fans.
The win ensured Nigeria claimed third place at the tournament after narrowly missing out on the final, while Egypt were left to reflect on missed chances in a tightly contested encounter marked by strong defensive displays from both sides.
