Flying Eagles defender Adamu Maigari delivered a commanding performance on Sunday as Nigeria defeated Egypt 4-1 on penalties to secure the bronze medal at the TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations. The match had ended 1-1 in regulation time at the Cairo International Stadium.
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Maigari, who was later named Man of the Match, expressed his gratitude and mixed emotions after the game. “We give glory to God, without Him we wouldn’t be here today,” he said. “We are happy to win the bronze medal, even though it’s not what we originally planned for. But that is football.”
Nigeria had fallen behind early to a 3rd-minute goal by Egypt’s Omar Osama, but Bidemi Amole equalized just after the break. In the penalty shootout, goalkeeper Ajia Yakub emerged the hero, saving Egypt’s second and third spot-kicks to seal a 4-1 victory for the Flying Eagles.
Maigari took a moment to acknowledge the support of the nation, saying, “I want to thank the entire country for believing in us. Finishing the tournament with a win and this Man of the Match award is something I will always cherish.”
It was a fitting end to a rollercoaster tournament for the Flying Eagles, who despite missing out on the final, leave Egypt with pride — a bronze medal and a secured ticket to the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
