Nwabali heroics and penalty drama crown Nigeria third at AFCON

Nwabali Heroics and Penalty Drama Crown Nigeria Third at AFCON

By Wanjiru Esther

Casablanca, Morocco Nigeria claimed third place at the Africa Cup of Nations after edging Egypt 4–2 on penalties following a tense, scoreless draw in the third-place playoff at Stade Mohammed V on Saturday night.

The encounter produced few clear chances in regulation time as both sides struggled to break down organised defences. Despite moments of promise from either end, the match ended goalless, pushing the contest to a dramatic penalty shootout.

Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero of the night, producing crucial saves during the shootout to swing momentum in favour of the Super Eagles. Egypt’s Mohamed Salah saw his effort denied, a moment that proved decisive as pressure mounted on the Pharaohs.

Nigeria kept their composure from the spot, with Ademola Lookman calmly converting the decisive penalty to seal a 4–2 victory and secure the bronze medal. The win ensured the Super Eagles finished the tournament on a high note after missing out on a place in the final.

For Egypt, the defeat marked a painful end to their AFCON campaign after an otherwise solid run. Their inability to capitalise on key moments in the shootout ultimately cost them a podium finish.

The result extends Nigeria’s strong record in AFCON third-place matches and underlined their resilience in high-pressure situations on the continental stage.