Super Eagles goalkeeper and man of the match, Stanley Nwabali
By Sammy Etuk
Stanley Nwabali’s heroics in the penalty shootout powered Nigeria to a 4–2 victory over Egypt, sealing third place at the Africa Cup of Nations. The Super Eagles goalkeeper produced two vital saves from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush after a tense contest that ended goalless through regulation time and extra time. Nigeria, fielding a lineup largely made up of reserve players, showed composure and resilience to claim the bronze medal.
From the opening exchanges, Nigeria settled quickly despite the changes to their starting XI.
The attacking burden rested mainly on Akor Adams and Paul Onuachu, whose physical presence and movement unsettled Egypt’s defence. Adams was central to most of Nigeria’s attacking moments, stretching the back line and creating space for teammates as the Super Eagles pressed with intent.
Nigeria appeared to take the lead when Akor Adams finished from close range after meeting a Samuel Chukwueze cross, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review for a foul by Paul Onuachu in the build-up, not for offside.
The Moroccan centre referee, Jalal Jiyed, after consultation with the video officials, ruled that the infringement occurred before the ball was played in, and the score remained level. Egypt responded with spells of possession led by Salah, while defenders Ramy Rabia and Mostafa Hany held their line to keep Nigeria at bay.
After the interval, Nigeria continued to push forward. The introduction of Ademola Lookman added pace and urgency, and the substitute later found the net, only for that effort to be ruled out for offside after another check.
Egypt remained competitive through the industry of Mahmoud Saber and Emam Ashour in midfield, but clear chances were limited as both teams cancelled each other out across open play.
The contest was ultimately settled from the penalty spot. Nwabali’s saves from Salah and Marmoush placed Nigeria firmly in control of the shootout.
The Super Eagles converted through Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru saw his own attempt saved. Egypt’s successful penalties came from Ramy Rabia and get Mahmoud Saber, but Nwabali’s calm authority ensured Nigeria finished the tournament with a deserved third-place finish.Heroic Nwabali Lifts Nigeria to AFCON Bronze
Nwabali’s heroics in the penalty shootout powered Nigeria to a 4–2 victory over Egypt, sealing third place at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles goalkeeper produced two vital saves from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush after a tense contest that ended goalless through regulation time and extra time. Nigeria, fielding a lineup largely made up of reserve players, showed composure and resilience to claim the bronze medal.
From the opening exchanges, Nigeria settled quickly despite the changes to their starting XI.
The attacking burden rested mainly on Akor Adams and Paul Onuachu, whose physical presence and movement unsettled Egypt’s defence. Adams was central to most of Nigeria’s attacking moments, stretching the back line and creating space for teammates as the Super Eagles pressed with intent.
Nigeria appeared to take the lead when Akor Adams finished from close range after meeting a Samuel Chukwueze cross, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review for a foul by Paul Onuachu in the build-up, not for offside. The Moroccan centre referee, Jalal Jiyed, after consultation with the video officials, ruled that the infringement occurred before the ball was played in, and the score remained level. Egypt responded with spells of possession led by Salah, while defenders Ramy Rabia and Mostafa Hany held their line to keep Nigeria at bay.
After the interval, Nigeria continued to push forward. The introduction of Ademola Lookman added pace and urgency, and the substitute later found the net, only for that effort to be ruled out for offside after another check.
Egypt remained competitive through the industry of Mahmoud Saber and Emam Ashour in midfield, but clear chances were limited as both teams cancelled each other out across open play.
The contest was ultimately settled from the penalty spot. Nwabali’s saves from Salah and Marmoush placed Nigeria firmly in control of the shootout.
The Super Eagles converted through Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru saw his own attempt saved. Egypt’s successful penalties came from Ramy Rabia and Mahmoud Saber, but Nwabali’s calm authority ensured Nigeria finished the tournament with a deserved third-place finish.
©️ Etuk is a veteran sports journalist of international repute.
