Super Eagles beat Egypt 4-2 on penalties to win AFCON bronze in Casablanca
Nigeria's Super Eagles secured the AFCON third-place medal on Saturday, defeating Egypt 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out at Stade Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca. The match was deadlocked after 90 minutes, with the decisive kicks saved by goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who stopped attempts from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush. Centre-back Calvin Bassey, who was suspended for the match after picking up a yellow card in the semi-final, watched the victory from the stands. The Fulham defender reacted emotionally, telling reporters in the mixed zone: "I'm happy to get something, thank God." Bassey had been outstanding for Nigeria in every match he played under coach Eric Chelle. This result means Nigeria leaves Morocco with a bronze medal, following their loss to South Africa in the semi-final. The team's performance has been praised by former captain Kanu and others, with Osimhen and Ndidi among those who left camp after the win. Egypt's coach also saluted his players despite the defeat. The AFCON 2025 final is set between Morocco and South Africa. Will this bronze medal be a foundation for Nigeria to build on, or does it highlight the gap to reach the final?