Nigeria’s strength-testing friendly against Egypt ended in a narrow 2–1 defeat in Cairo, with Eric Chelle using the game to rotate heavily and assess depth ahead of AFCON 2025, Footynaija.com reports.
As revealed in the match report, the Super Eagles showed flashes, drew level before the break, but could not respond after Egypt’s second-half winner.
Below are the Super Eagles player ratings, based on overall influence on the game.
Related Post
Stanley Nwabali – 6
Started the game and looked composed with the ball at his feet. He could do little about Egypt’s opener and was largely untested otherwise. His early substitution was pre-planned rather than performance-based.
Bright Osayi-Samuel – 6.5
Energetic on the right and one of Nigeria’s more reliable outlets. Defended aggressively and tried to push play forward. Did not switch off, even when Egypt targeted his flank.
Chidozie Awaziem – 7.5
Nigeria’s standout performer on the night. Scored the equaliser with a powerful header just before the break and led from the back. Picked up an early yellow card but managed his game well afterwards. Substituted at half-time as part of rotation, not form.
Igho Ogbu – 6.5
Solid and alert in central defence. Read danger well and stayed tight to his marker. Could not prevent Egypt’s second goal after the interval, but his overall display was encouraging.
Zaidu Sanusi – 6
Worked hard down the left but offered limited threat in the final third. Defensively steady, though Egypt found joy switching play to his side. Withdrawn at half-time.
Frank Onyeka – 6
Provided energy and ball recovery in midfield but struggled to control the tempo when Egypt stepped up their pressing. Did the dirty work but lacked composure in possession.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 6.5
One of Nigeria’s brighter midfielders in the first half. Carried the ball well and linked play between midfield and attack. His influence dipped as the game opened up.
Ebenezer Akinsanmiro – 6
Showed willingness and discipline in his role. Kept things simple and covered ground, though he did not impose himself creatively. Substituted at half-time.
Raphael Onyedika – 5.5
Had a quiet first half and found it hard to dictate play against Egypt’s midfield. Struggled to settle before being replaced at the break.
Paul Onuachu – 5.5
Battled physically and occupied defenders but received little quality service. Booked early, which limited his aggression. Failed to make his presence count in the box.
Chidera Ejuke – 6
Started brightly, using his pace to stretch Egypt’s defence. His decision-making let him down in key moments, and his impact faded before he was eventually replaced.
Substitutes
Amas Obasogie – 5.5
Came on at half-time and conceded once, though the finish left him exposed. Distribution was tidy, but he had little chance to redeem himself.
Bruno Onyemaechi – 6
Added freshness on the left and was more aggressive going forward than Zaidu. Still adjusting at this level but showed confidence.
Semi Ajayi – 6
Brought experience and calm to the back line. Organised well but could not stop Egypt from finding spaces between the lines.
Cyriel Dessers – 5.5
Worked hard off the ball but struggled to get involved in dangerous areas. Limited service meant he barely threatened Egypt’s defence.
Ademola Lookman – 6
Injected urgency and direct running after coming on. Tried to force openings but Egypt defended deep and closed him out effectively.
