Nigeria triumphed over Egypt in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 4-2 after a tense 0-0 draw in Casablanca on March 16, 2024. The Super Eagles secured third place at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with substitute Ademola Lookman scoring the decisive penalty. This victory marks Nigeria’s record-extending ninth third-place finish in the tournament’s history.
Both teams entered the match looking to recover from disappointing semifinal exits. Nigeria faced Egypt with renewed determination, especially after their earlier loss to Morocco. The game featured a series of missed opportunities and a disallowed goal that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush missed Egypt’s initial spot-kicks during the penalty shootout. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Akor Adams, Moses Simon, and Alex Iwobi successfully converted their penalties, setting the stage for Lookman to clinch the bronze medal.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
In the first half, Nigeria thought they had scored in the 36th minute when Adams headed the ball into the net. However, after a lengthy VAR check, the goal was disallowed due to an alleged foul by Paul Onuachu on Hamdy Fathy. Replays suggested that Onuachu did not make significant contact, leaving Nigerian fans frustrated.
Despite the disallowed goal, both teams displayed a more aggressive approach compared to their previous matches. Egypt showed early ambition, with Salah attempting to link up with teammate Trezeguet. Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had to be alert early on, demonstrating sharp reflexes to clear the ball from danger.
As the match progressed, Nigeria began to impose themselves. Lookman, who entered as a halftime substitute for Onuachu, quickly made an impact. Although his first attempt was ruled offside, his presence added urgency to Nigeria’s attack.
Egypt’s response came through Marmoush, who had been a standout player in the tournament. His introduction shifted the momentum, but Nigeria’s defense remained resolute, limiting Egypt’s opportunities as both teams sought to break the deadlock.
Decisive Penalties and Victory Celebration
As the match approached its conclusion, both sides had chances to score, but neither could find the net. The tension escalated as the game moved into penalties. Nigeria’s Fisayo Dele Bashiru had his initial spot-kick saved by Mostafa Shobeir, raising concerns among Nigerian supporters about a repeat of their earlier penalty misfortune.
However, the Super Eagles regained composure. Adams converted his penalty, followed by successful attempts from Simon and Iwobi. Nwabali’s crucial saves from Salah’s and Marmoush’s penalties gave Nigeria the upper hand. Lookman then stepped up to take the final penalty, striking decisively to secure Nigeria’s third-place finish and end their AFCON campaign on a high note.
This victory not only highlights Nigeria’s resilience but also underscores their status as a powerhouse in African football. The Super Eagles will now look to build on this success in future tournaments as they continue to strive for the ultimate prize: the AFCON title.
