The Super Eagles of Nigeria have clinched the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), bouncing back from a heartbreaking semi-final defeat to hosts Morocco just days earlier.

In the third-place playoff held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Nigeria overcame Egypt’s Pharaohs in a tense penalty shootout, winning 4-2 after a hard-fought 0-0 draw in regulation time. This victory marks Nigeria’s record-extending ninth AFCON bronze medal and maintains their perfect record in third-place playoff matches.

The match itself was a cautious, tactical affair, with both teams—still reeling from their semi-final exits—prioritizing defensive solidity over attacking risks. Despite occasional moments of promise, including a disallowed Nigerian goal in the first half (ruled out by VAR for a foul in the build-up) and a few saves from goalkeepers on both sides, neither team could find the breakthrough in 90 minutes.

It was in the shootout where the Super Eagles shone. Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero once again, producing crucial saves to deny Egypt’s star forwards Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush. Nigeria’s takers—Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman—converted their penalties with composure (after an early miss from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was offset by Egypt’s failures), sealing the win and redemption from the spot.

This bronze comes after the Super Eagles’ narrow exit in the semi-finals against Morocco, where they also fell in a penalty shootout (2-4) following a goalless draw after extra time. That loss in Rabat dashed Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the final and claiming a fourth continental title, but the team showed resilience and character by regrouping quickly for the playoff.

Nigeria’s path through the tournament included topping Group C unbeaten and strong knockout wins over Mozambique (4-0) and Algeria (2-0) before the semi-final setback. The bronze finish provides a positive end to the campaign, boosting morale ahead of future competitions.

With the final set for Sunday between hosts Morocco and Senegal, Nigeria depart the 2025 AFCON with pride, a medal, and renewed belief in their ability to compete at the highest level on the continent. The Super Eagles have once again proven why they are the kings of the AFCON podium’s third step. 🇳🇬⚽

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