Nigeria ended their AFCON 2025 campaign on a high note by edging past Egypt 4-2 on penalties after a stubborn 0-0 draw in regulation time, sealing third place in Casablanca on Saturday evening, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles came closest to breaking the deadlock in the first half when Samuel Chukwueze’s cross was met by Akor Adams and deflected into the net off Paul Onuachu, only for VAR to step in and rule the goal out for a foul by Onuachu in the build-up.
In the penalties, Stanley Nwabali emerged as the decisive figure, saving spot kicks from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush. From the spot, Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman converted to secure a 4-2 win and the bronze medal.
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Here are the Super Eagles player ratings from the match.
Stanley Nwabali – 7.5
Nigeria’s hero on the night, and the deserved Player of the Match. The Chippa United goalkeeper made a good save from Salah in open play and then produced two crucial penalty saves in the shootout, including one from the Egyptian captain.
Bright Osayi-Samuel – 7.0
Provided good energy down the right flank and stayed disciplined defensively before going off injured. He dealt well with Trezeguet and limited space for crosses. His withdrawal disrupted Nigeria slightly, but his contribution was solid.
Semi Ajayi – 6.7
Composed in central defence and strong in aerial duels. He read the game well and cut out several Egyptian through balls before being forced off late with an injury.
Igoh Ogbu – 6.5
Aggressive and committed in his challenges, though he picked up a yellow card. He stayed tight to his markers and blocked a number of threatening runs into the box.
Bruno Onyemaechi – 6.6
Did well defensively against Egypt’s wide threats and supported attacks when possible. He also created one of Nigeria’s clearer openings with a cross for Akor Adams.
Raphael Onyedika – 6.4
Worked hard in midfield, breaking up play and keeping things tidy. He had a shot saved in the second half but was mainly focused on shielding the defence.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru – 6.2
Showed energy and movement between the lines but struggled to impose himself fully on the game. His missed penalty was a blemish on an otherwise steady performance.
Moses Simon – 6.4
Lively on the left, winning free kicks and stretching the Egyptian back line. He forced a save from distance and later converted his penalty with confidence.
Samuel Chukwueze – 7.4
Nigeria’s most dangerous attacker in open play. He caused problems with his direct running, forced a fine save with a header, and won several fouls in advanced areas.
Paul Onuachu – 5.6
Had a goal ruled out by VAR and found it difficult to get clear chances after that moment. His physical presence was useful, but he struggled to find rhythm before being replaced.
Akor Adams – 5.9
Worked hard up front and tested the goalkeeper early on. He led the line with energy and showed composure by converting the opening penalty of the shootout.
Substitutes
Ademola Lookman – 6.1
Added pace and creativity after coming on. He linked play well and stepped up to score the decisive penalty that sealed victory for Nigeria.
Alex Iwobi – 6.7
Brought more control and calmness into midfield. He kept the ball moving and slotted his penalty away with assurance.
Chidera Ejuke – N A
Came on late and had little time to influence the game.
Chidozie Awaziem – N A
Introduced in stoppage time following Ajayi’s injury, with minimal involvement.
