Five Moments That Delivered AFCON Bronze For Nigeria
Five Defining Moments as Super Eagles Outlast Egypt for AFCON Bronze
NIGERIA ended their AFCON 2025 campaign with resolve rather than regret, edging familiar foes Egypt 4–2 on penalties to claim the bronze medal after a tense goalless draw in Morocco. Still reeling from a heartbreaking semifinal shootout defeat to hosts Morocco, the Super Eagles were forced into another test of mental endurance—and they passed again.
Against a decorated Egyptian side and under mounting physical strain, Eric Chelle’s men leaned on structure, squad depth and nerve. Five moments stood out in a game that was less about spectacle and more about survival.
Chelle Shuffles the Pack
Eric Chelle signalled intent before kickoff with a bold reshaping of his starting XI. The Super Eagles coach made five changes, a blend of tactical rotation and enforced adjustments following injuries and suspension.
Igoh Ogbu replaced the suspended Calvin Bassey and delivered a composed display, barely giving Egypt room to exploit. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze were recalled to the starting lineup, with Chukwueze’s inclusion particularly eye-catching after criticism over his missed semifinal penalty.
Perhaps the biggest call was up front. With Victor Osimhen sidelined by an ankle injury, Chelle opted for Paul Onuachu, prioritising aerial presence and hold-up play over pace. It was a selection rooted in pragmatism, not sentiment.
Salah Neutralised Again
For the second consecutive game, Mohamed Salah failed to impose himself. Egypt’s talisman, expected to drag his side to a consolation medal, was largely anonymous.
Bruno Onyemaechi marshalled Salah expertly, denying him space and time to turn. The Liverpool star’s frustrations grew as the match wore on, summing up an AFCON campaign that never truly ignited for Egypt’s captain.
VAR Steals the Spotlight
Technology once again took centre stage. Nigeria thought they had broken the deadlock late in the first half when Akor Adams found the net, only for VAR to rule the goal out.
In the closing stages, Adams was again involved, appealing for a penalty after contact from Hamdy Fathy. VAR reviewed and waved play on. Moments later, Egypt demanded a spot-kick when Omar Marmoush went down under pressure from Semi Ajayi. Another check followed, another refusal. Tempers flared, benches protested, but the deadlock remained.
Injuries Stretch Nigeria’s Depth
Nigeria’s resilience was tested further as injuries mounted. Bright Osayi-Samuel pulled up while tracking back and had to be withdrawn. Soon after, Semi Ajayi clutched his hamstring and signalled for a change.
Two defensive disruptions late in the game could have derailed Nigeria’s rhythm. Instead, the Super Eagles regrouped, tightened their lines and forced the contest into penalties.
Nwabali Delivers—Again
When the shootout arrived, Stanley Nwabali once more became Nigeria’s difference-maker. The Chippa United goalkeeper saved spot-kicks from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, swinging momentum decisively Nigeria’s way.
His calm, unflinching presence from twelve yards sealed the bronze medal and capped a tournament in which he emerged as one of AFCON 2025’s standout performers.
Nigeria may leave Morocco without gold, but they depart with belief restored. This bronze was forged through resilience, trust in the squad and nerve under pressure—qualities Chelle will hope to carry forward.
