Nigeria’s Flying Eagles claimed the bronze medal at the CAF U20 African Cup of Nations 2025 after defeating host nation Egypt 4-1 in a dramatic penalty shootout on Sunday.
The third-place playoff, held at the prestigious 30 June stadium, saw Nigeria overcome an early deficit to force penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
The tournament hosts struck early when Osama Omar found the back of the net in just the third minute, putting Egypt in command. However, Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s resilient Nigerian side fought back after the break, with Bidemi Amole finishing brilliantly from Divine Oliseh’s precise pass to level the score.
The closing stages of the match produced heart-stopping moments for both sides. Egypt came agonizingly close to securing victory in regular time when defensive lapses by Nigeria presented golden opportunities, but fortune favored the Flying Eagles as Mohamed El Sayed’s attempt struck the crossbar and Mohamed Haitham’s follow-up hit the post.
In the ensuing penalty shootout, Nigeria displayed remarkable composure, converting all four of their spot kicks while Egypt faltered with goalkeeper saves against Mohamed Atef and Ahmed Kabaka’s attempts.
The commanding shootout performance secured Nigeria’s status as the tournament’s third-best team, leaving the Junior Pharaohs to contemplate defeat on home soil.
This bronze medal represents a significant achievement for the Flying Eagles, who showed tremendous character to bounce back from their disappointing semi-final exit against South Africa.
Nigeria 1 (4)–1 (1) Egypt (FT – Nigeria win on pens)
Scorers:
Nigeria – Bidemi Amole (47’)
Egypt – Osama Omar (3’)
Penalties (Nigeria first):
NGR: Chukwu (scored), Ayuma (scored), Arierhi (scored), Maigana (scored)
EGY: Khedr (scored), Kabaka (saved), Atef (saved)