Breaking NewsUncategorized

AFCON 2025: Super Eagles to Battle Egypt for Bronze After Heartbreaking Shootout Defeat to Morocco

Sports Desk

By nuus.ng Sport Desk

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face the Pharaohs of Egypt in the third-place playoff of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) this Saturday, following a dramatic semi-final exit at the hands of hosts Morocco.

The “battle of the fallen giants” is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.

Semi-Final Heartbreak in Rabat Nigeria’s hopes of a fourth continental title were dashed on Wednesday night in Rabat after a tense penalty shootout loss to the Atlas Lions. Despite a disciplined defensive performance that saw the game end 0-0 after 120 minutes of grueling football, the Super Eagles fell 4-2 on penalties.

The turning point in the shootout came when full-back Bruno Onyemaechi missed his spot-kick, allowing Youssef En-Nesyri to convert the decisive penalty for Morocco. Questions are also being asked about the tactical decision to substitute star striker Victor Osimhen just minutes before the shootout, leaving the team without their talisman for the crucial spot-kicks.

Egypt’s Defeat to Senegal In the earlier semi-final, Egypt’s quest for a record-extending eighth title was halted by defending champions Senegal. In a replay of the 2021 final, the Teranga Lions edged the Pharaohs 1-0, thanks to a late strike from Sadio Mané. Egypt struggled to break down the Senegalese defense, with captain Mohamed Salah kept quiet for much of the encounter.

The Battle for Bronze Saturday’s fixture offers both African powerhouses a chance at redemption and the consolation of a bronze medal.

  • Fixture: Nigeria vs. Egypt (Third-Place Playoff)
  • Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
  • Venue: Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca, Morocco

While the Super Eagles will be disappointed to miss out on the final against Senegal, the clash against Egypt remains a high-profile fixture, renewing one of the continent’s fiercest rivalries.

What’s Next? The grand finale of AFCON 2025 will see hosts Morocco take on Senegal on Sunday, January 18, in Rabat, as the Atlas Lions chase their first title since 1976 and Senegal looks to retain their crown.