Egypt Vs. Nigeria: Eagles Target Bronze After Semi-Final Heartbreak
By AUGUSTUS ISICHEI
EGYPT and Nigeria will clash this weekend in the Africa Cup of Nations third-place playoff, with both continental heavyweights eager to end their campaign on a positive note after semi-final disappointment.
The third-place match is often viewed as the tournament’s most bittersweet fixture, offering consolation rather than glory. Still, for Egypt and Nigeria—two of Africa’s most successful football nations—it presents a valuable opportunity to restore pride and secure a bronze medal after falling just short of the final.
Both teams arrived at the tournament as favourites but were stopped in the semi-finals. Egypt suffered a narrow defeat to reigning champions Senegal in Wednesday’s first semi-final, while Nigeria were edged out by hosts Morocco following a tense penalty shootout in Rabat.
Date, Kick-off Time and Venue
The playoff will take place on Saturday 17 January 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 4:00pm GMT. The match will be played at the iconic Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco.
Team News
Egypt received a boost as winger Trezeguet returned from injury to feature against Senegal, although Mohamed Hamdi remains sidelined and doubtful for the playoff. Head coach Hossam Hassan may reshuffle his attacking setup after a muted semi-final display.
Despite failing to score, Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush are expected to start, with their struggles attributed more to limited supply than individual form.
Nigeria will be without defender Calvin Bassey, who is suspended after picking up a yellow card in the semi-final. However, captain Wilfred Ndidi returns from suspension, while Ryan Alebiosu is close to full fitness. Victor Osimhen’s availability remains uncertain after he was forced off late in extra time.
Prediction
With both sides keen to avoid another setback, a tight contest is expected.
Prediction: Nigeria 2–1 Egypt.
Head-to-Head: Egypt 6 wins, Nigeria 9 wins, Draws 5.
