By Adekunle Osagie in Morocco
Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was the hero of the day, saving two penalties as the Super Eagles beat Egypt to win bronze at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Egypt’s top players, Muhammad Salah and Omar Marmoush both missed their penalties to give the day to Nigeria.
The game had to be decided straight from penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time. The undisputable hero of the penalty shootout is Nwabali. The Nigeria shot-stopper produced two outstanding saves to deny Egypt’s star men, captain Salah and forward Marmoush, winning the match decisively for Nigeria.
There was tension in Nigeria’s camp when Fisayo Dele-Bashiru saw his effort saved by Egypt goalkeeper Ouba Shobeir. But Nwabali quickly restored momentum with consecutive saves from Salah and Marmoush.
Calm finishes from Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman restored hope of victory. Eventually, Ademola Lookman scored the winner for Nigeria and confirmed Nigeria’s bronze medal finish.
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