iDeemlawfulStanley Nwabali emerged as Nigeria’s unlikely hero on Saturday night, January 17, as the Super Eagles overcame Egypt on penalties to secure the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
After more than 95 minutes marked by missed chances and VAR drama ended without a goal, it was the composure of the goalkeeper that proved decisive.
Nwabali pulled off two crucial saves in a tense shootout, handing Nigeria a hard-fought victory and a podium finish to round off their campaign in style.
The third-place playoff between Nigeria and Egypt was far from a mere formality. Both sides approached the encounter with intensity, spurred on by a vibrant crowd of 38,113 fans who created an atmosphere befitting a major continental contest.
MOST READ ARTICLES
Nigeria believed they had gone ahead midway through the first half when Akor Adams headed home from close range after a slick move.
However, the celebrations were halted following a VAR check that ruled out the goal for a foul in the buildup, leaving the Super Eagles clearly frustrated.
The second half followed a similar script, with Nigeria enjoying spells of possession while Egypt posed threats on the break through Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush. Ademola Lookman also saw a goal chalked off early after the restart for offside, deepening Nigeria’s sense of grievance on the night.
As the game progressed, injuries and substitutions disrupted the flow. Semi Ajayi was forced off late, while Eric Chelle introduced fresh legs in search of a breakthrough that never arrived.
Despite several dangerous moments at both ends, neither side could find the winning touch in regulation time or added minutes, making penalties inevitable.
The shootout became a test of nerve, swinging in Nigeria’s favour. Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman all calmly converted their kicks. Egypt replied through Rami Rabia and Mahmoud Saber, but the pressure mounted on their key players.
Omar Marmoush failed to beat Nwabali, and the Super Eagles goalkeeper also denied Mohamed Salah, drawing loud cheers from Nigerian supporters. Although Fisayo Dele-Bashiru missed for Nigeria to briefly keep Egypt hopeful, Nwabali ultimately had the final word.
Nwabali’s exceptional performance not only delivered the AFCON 2025 bronze medal for the Super Eagles but also earned him the Man-of-the-Match award in the third-place encounter.