Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali became the hero for the Super Eagles, as they beat Egypt 4-2 on penalties to claim the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles had missed out on a spot in the final after losing on penalties to host Morocco in the semi-final.
Nigeria had won all their games at the tournament until the semi-final, which had ended goalless. Similar, Saturday’s third-place playoff also ended without goals after 90 minutes.
But unlike in the semi-final, there was no extra-time and the match went straight to penalties. After Fisayo Dele-Bashiru missed the first spot-kick for Nigeria, Mohamed Salah had a chance to put Egypt in the lead but the Liverpool star’s spot-kick was saved by Nwabali.
While, Nigeria remained without further mistake, Nwabali also saved the spot-kick of Manchester City’ Omar Marmoush to secure bronze for his nation.
When reigning African Player of the Year converted Nigeria’s fifth penalty, the Super Eagles were able to celebrate another medal after claiming silver at the previous tournament.
It was the Chippa goalkeeper’s fourth clean sheet in the knockout stages, with the Super Eagles arguably a bit unlucky to not make the final after an overall very good tournament.