The encounter between two of Africa’s most decorated national teams ended goalless after 90 minutes of tense and tactical football, forcing the contest into a penalty shootout to determine the bronze medallist.
Nigeria took early control of the shootout, with Akor Adams calmly converting the opening kick. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali then emerged as the hero, producing a crucial save to deny Omar Marmoush and later stopping Egypt captain Mohamed Salah, swinging momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favour.
Although Fisayo Dele-Bashiru had his effort saved by Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy, Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi converted confidently for the Super Eagles. Rami Rabia and Mahmoud Saber kept Egypt in contention with successful strikes, but Ademola Lookman sealed victory by dispatching the final penalty to hand Nigeria a 4–2 win.
Nwabali’s two decisive saves ensured the Super Eagles finished the tournament on a winning note, claiming a record-extending ninth AFCON bronze medal. The result further underlined Nigeria’s reputation for consistency on the continental stage, while Egypt were left to rue another narrow exit in the latter stages of the competition.
Historically, Nigeria remain one of Africa’s most successful football nations, having won the AFCON title three times, finished runners-up on four occasions and now claimed third place a record nine times.
Following his standout performance, Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was named Man of the Match. The Chippa United shot-stopper dedicated the award to Nigerian supporters and his teammates, praising their collective effort throughout the tournament.
Nwabali acknowledged that while third place was not the team’s ultimate target, the players were determined to finish strongly. His performances proved vital across the competition, as he kept four clean sheets in seven matches and conceded just four goals. Nigeria, in turn, ended the tournament with 14 goals scored — their highest tally at any AFCON edition.
The bronze medal triumph not only delivered continental pride but also offered a positive conclusion to Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign, reinforcing optimism around the team’s resilience and future prospects.