AFCON 2025: Nigeria will face Egypt for third place on Saturday
Super Eagles
Nigeria will confront the Pharaohs of Egypt for third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday, January 17, 2026.
The fixture follows Wednesday’s semi-finals, in which the Super Eagles fell short against host nation Morocco, losing 4–2 in a penalty shootout after a tense 0–0 draw in regulation and extra time.
Morocco dominated much of the attacking play, registering 16 shots to Nigeria’s two.
Excellent goalkeeping from Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali was instrumental in keeping the Eagles in the game throughout the 120 minutes.
Star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman struggled to break through Morocco’s defence, while the Atlas Lions’ full-backs, Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui, were influential in both attack and defence.
In the penalty shootout, Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru converted for Nigeria, but misses from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi handed Morocco the victory.
On Wednesday, Senegal edged Egypt 1–0 in Tangier, with Sadio Mané scoring the lone goal in the 78th minute.
Senegal dominated possession, while Egypt defended resolutely.
With the semi-finals concluded, Nigeria will face Egypt to contest third place at 5 pm on Saturday, while Morocco and Senegal prepare to meet in Sunday’s final for the AFCON 2025 crown.
