The Super Eagles ended their Africa Cup of Nations campaign on a positive note on Saturday night, securing the bronze medal after defeating Egypt on penalties following a goalless draw at the end of regulation time, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria held their nerve from the spot to win 4-2, bouncing back from their semi-final heartbreak against hosts Morocco earlier in the week.
In the shootout against the Pharaohs, Nwabali emerged as Nigeria’s hero, saving two Egyptian efforts, including one from Mohamed Salah. Nigeria converted four of their five attempts, with Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman all finding the net.
The result sealed Nigeria’s ninth third place finish in AFCON history and ensured the team left Morocco with a medal.
Akor Adams, who featured throughout the tournament, stepped forward to convert one of Nigeria’s penalties in the shootout. The Sevilla striker had earlier played a role in Nigeria’s run to the semi finals, scoring against Algeria in the quarter final and contributing during the knockout phase.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Adams addressed the narrative that had followed Nigeria since their semi final exit against Morocco, where they lost on penalties.
The forward insisted that the earlier setback did not define the team’s ability from the spot.
“Because we lost on penalties against Morocco does not mean we are bad at penalties,” Adams said.
The Super Eagles had entered the competition with high expectations after finishing second at the previous AFCON. They impressed in the group stage, winning all three matches, and carried that form into the knockout rounds before falling short against Morocco on spot kicks.
