Stanley Nwabali Heroics Seal AFCON Bronze for Nigeria Against Egypt

Casablanca, January 17, 2026 – Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was the hero as the Super Eagles defeated Egypt 4-2 on penalties to claim third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

After a goalless 90 minutes, the match went to a penalty shootout. Nwabali saved penalties from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, giving Nigeria the edge. Nigeria converted four of their kicks, with goals from Akor Adams, captain Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Lookman, despite Fisayo Dele-Bashiru missing the first attempt.

“Victory in Casablanca follows the heartbreak of recent shootout losses that denied Nigeria a place in the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoffs and the AFCON final,” the team’s performance report noted.

Match Highlights

• VAR Controversies: Paul Onuachu scored in the first half, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review for an accidental elbow on Hamdy Fathy. He received a yellow card.
• Second-Half Action: Lookman scored immediately after the break, but the goal was ruled offside. Egypt’s goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, son of former national keeper Ahmed Shobeir, made several key saves.
• Egypt Attempts: Salah and Marmoush struggled to threaten Nigeria’s defense, with most chances being blocked or cleared. Victor Osimhen remained on the bench, reportedly due to fitness concerns.

Crowd Influence

Most of the 45,000-strong Stade Mohammed V crowd supported Nigeria, booing Egypt whenever they had possession. Observers noted that Moroccan fans favored Nigeria due to the longstanding rivalry with Egypt.

AFCON Third-Place Record

The victory maintains Nigeria’s perfect record in AFCON third-place matches, winning all seven previous play-offs.