Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged as the hero as the Super Eagles clinched the bronze medal at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, following a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Egypt in Casablanca on Saturday.
READ ALSO; Nwabali the Hero as Super Eagles Clinch AFCON 2025 Bronze Against Egypt
After regulation time ended goalless at the Mohammed V Stadium, Nwabali produced a superb display in the shoot-out, saving two penalties to guide Nigeria to a 4–2 win.
The result secured Nigeria’s ninth AFCON bronze medal — the most by any nation in the history of the competition.
The shoot-out began with an early setback for Nigeria as Dele Fisayo-Bashiru missed the opening kick.
However, Nwabali quickly turned the tide by saving Mohamed Salah’s effort to keep the Super Eagles in contention.
The goalkeeper went on to deny another Egyptian penalty as Nigeria converted all four of their remaining kicks to seal the victory.
Nwabali’s decisive contribution earned him the Man of the Match award, which he was quick to dedicate to his teammates after the game.
“I dedicate this Man of the Match award to my teammates,” Nwabali said. “They are wonderful guys, an amazing team. I’m very happy that I was able to contribute my part.”
Reflecting on the significance of the bronze medal, the goalkeeper highlighted Nigeria’s journey throughout the tournament.
“This bronze medal is very important for us,” he added. “We came into this tournament as underdogs, and to finish on the podium means a lot. I want to thank the management, the coaches, and everyone around the team. They are amazing people, honestly. I really appreciate them.”
Nigeria’s victory provided consolation after a painful semi-final exit, and capped their AFCON 2025 campaign with a record-extending ninth bronze medal, underlining the Super Eagles’ enduring pedigree on the continental stage.
