Nigeria Triumphs Over Egypt in AFCON Bronze Medal Match. Cotonou, Benin — January 17, 2026 Nigeria emerged victorious in a dramatic penalty shootout, securing the bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a thrilling match against Egypt. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali played a crucial role in the victory, saving two penalties, including a crucial one from Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s star striker.
The match, which took place on Saturday, saw the teams deadlock at 0-0 after regular time. Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman sealed the win with the winning penalty. Salah and Omar Marmoush both saw their penalty kicks thwarted by Nwabali, setting the stage for the nail-biting shootout.
Salah, who has scored 11 Africa Cup goals this tournament, was kept in check by Nigeria’s defense, and his inability to add to his tally was a key factor in Egypt’s defeat. Victor Osimhen, who was a substitute for Nigeria, remained on the bench, suggesting he was nursing an injury from the team’s previous match against Morocco, where they lost in the semifinals on penalties.
The Super Eagles’bronze medal win comes as a positive end to the tournament, in contrast to the previous edition, where they lost in the final to hosts Ivory Coast.
The final will be contested by Morocco and Senegal in Rabat on Sunday, with Sadio Mane’s solitary goal ensuring Senegal’s passage through a 1-0 win over Egypt in their semifinal. Nwabali’s heroics were pivotal in Nigeria’s success, with the goalkeeper demonstrating remarkable skill and determination to secure the victory. His performance was a stark contrast to the loss in the semifinals, where Nigeria’s penalty shootout defeat to Morocco was a disappointment for fans.
Further details regarding the health of Victor Osimhen and the immediate plans for the Super Eagles are expected to be released by officials.
