AFCON 2025: Nigeria wins a 9th bronze medal at the expense of Egypt

A bluntly sharp first half
A game of honor for both Nigeria and Egypt after disappointing semi finals at the AFCON. The two coaches proposed two strongly reshaped teams. No less than 5 changes on the Nigerian side and 6 in the Pharaons compared to their last match. The meeting is having trouble getting going. Egypt starts better with a very concerned Mohamed Salah in this first half hour. In the 27th minute, the cross of Mohamed Hanny is met by Salah. Nwabali intervenes before being resaved by Ajayi on the 2nd attempt of the Egyptian number 10.

Starting this afternoon, Samuel Chukwueze sees his header repelled by El Shenawy’s replacement. In the aftermath, Nigeria is thinking of opening the scoring through Paul Onuachu, but the goal is invalided for an unfortunate elbow in the face of Hamdy Fathy from the Nigerian attacker. The score will not budge in this match that lacks enthusiasm. Nigeria is unable to set up their game in the absence of Alex Iwobi, Victor Oshimen and Ademola Lookman.

A more enterprising but inefficient Nigeria in second half
Upon returning from the locker room, Éric Chelle decides to launch Lookman. For his first ball, the African Player of the Year in 2024 scores a head, after 20 seconds spent on the field. A goal canceled for an offside position by Akor Adams at the beginning of the action. The entry of Lookman immediately changes the face of the Super Eagles. Faster transmissions that allow seeing attempts by Raphael Onyedika (49th) and Moses Simon (50th).

At the hour of play, Hossam Hassan responds to his counterpart by launching Omar Marmoush. The Super Eagles seem above their opponents. But their domination does not materialize in frank opportunities. Ademola Lookman sets fire to the Egyptian defense but his setback center is not concluded. The match ends with a score of 0-0 and the bronze medal is decided in the penalty shootout. Delle Bashiru misses the first attempt of the session. Behind, Nwabali puts down Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush in turn to allow Lookman to conclude this duel with a victory for Nigeria (0-0, 4-2 on penalties).