Egypt 0-0 Nigeria (4-2 on penalties): Super Eagles Claim AFCON Bronze

CASABLANCA, Morocco -- Nigeria secured third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Egypt after a goalless draw in the third-place match on January 17, 2026.[8]

The clash at Stade Mohammed V pitted two West African giants against North African powerhouse Egypt, both seeking consolation after semifinal exits. Nigeria had lost to Morocco on penalties in the semis, while Egypt fell short elsewhere.[1][2][3] Star-studded lineups featured Egypt's Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, alongside Nigeria's Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze.[1][2][6]

The first half ended 0-0 amid tense action. Egypt's Rami Rabia won a free kick at 42', while Nigeria's Paul Onuachu fouled. Halftime saw Nigeria sub Lookman for Onuachu.[2][4] Post-interval, delays and fouls defined play: Marmoush fouled at 64', Chukwueze earned set pieces at 76' and 78', and Akor Adams went offside.[1][4] Egypt pressed with Trézéguet and Zizo, but defenses held firm—Rabia and Mohamed Hany solid at the back.[3]

No goals came despite chances. Salah (4 goals in tournament) and Marmoush couldn't break through, nor could Osimhen (4 goals) or Lookman (3).[6] Penalties decided it: Nigeria converted four, Egypt two—echoing Morocco's semi win over Nigeria.[3][8] Penalty misses by Salah and Marmoush proved decisive, handing Nigeria bronze and denying Egypt a podium.[8]

Egypt's XI: Shobeir; Sobhy, Rabia, Fathy, Hany; Lasheen, Zizo, Trézéguet, Ashour, Salah, Mohamed. Subs included Marmoush, Saber.[1][3] Nigeria rotated effectively. Attention now shifts to the Morocco vs. Senegal final in Rabat, amid drama like Senegal's Mane retirement plea and federation complaints.[1][2]

Nigeria's resilience shines; Egypt laments missed spots. AFCON 2025 bronze to the Super Eagles![8]

(Word count: 298)