In a dramatic conclusion to their 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign, Nigeria’s Super Eagles clinched third place with a tense penalty shootout victory over Egypt at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.
After a scoreless 120 minutes, the match was decided from the penalty spot, where Nigeria prevailed 4–2, extending their perfect record in AFCON bronze-medal playoffs.
The tightly contested encounter saw both teams struggle to find clear scoring opportunities throughout regular and extra time. Despite Egypt’s star attackers including Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush pressing for breakthroughs, neither side could break the deadlock.
Penalty Drama
The shootout showcased nerves of steel from the Super Eagles. Nigeria converted four of their penalties, with Ademola Lookman stepping up to seal the victory with the decisive spot kick that confirmed Nigeria’s bronze medal finish. Egypt managed two successful penalties but were undone by missed efforts that ultimately tilted the tie in Nigeria’s favor.
Standout performances came from goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, whose crucial saves during the penalty shootout were instrumental to Nigeria’s triumph and earned him plaudits as one of the heroes of the night.
What It Means For Both Teams
For Nigeria, this win adds another bronze medal to their AFCON history and delivers a positive ending to a campaign that included five victories and a deep run into the semifinals, where they were narrowly beaten on penalties by hosts Morocco.
Egypt, the continent’s most successful nation historically, will depart Morocco disappointed but take heart from reaching the later stages and competing fiercely against one of Africa’s heavyweight rivals.
