Nigeria claim AFCON third place after penalty shoot-out win over Egypt

CASABLANCA: Nigeria secured third place at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after defeating Egypt 4–2 on penalties following a goalless draw in the bronze medal match here at the Mohammed V Stadium on Saturday.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was the hero for Nigeria, producing two crucial saves in the shoot-out to deny Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush and seal victory for the Super Eagles.

Nigeria came close to breaking the deadlock during regulation time, finding the back of the net on two occasions, but both goals were disallowed.

Paul Onuachu’s first-half effort was ruled out after a VAR review confirmed he had elbowed Egypt defender Hamdi Fathy in the face. 

Later, Ademola Lookman, introduced at half-time, saw his goal chalked off for offside.

Despite the frustration, Nigeria held their nerve in the penalty shoot-out to claim third place, the ninth time they have finished in that position at the Cup of Nations.

The West Africans had earlier been knocked out in the semi-finals by hosts Morocco on penalties on Wednesday.

Their recent disappointment was compounded in November, when DR Congo ended their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, also via a shoot-out.

Meanwhile, Morocco will face Senegal in Sunday’s final. The hosts are seeking their first continental title in 50 years, while the winners will claim their second AFCON crown and prize money of $10 million (£7.475 million).