Nigeria’s Flying Eagles sealed a third-place finish at the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025 after defeating hosts Egypt 4-1 on penalties in a thrilling bronze medal match on Sunday.
The tie had ended 1-1 after regulation time, with Egypt’s Omar Osama opening the scoring in the 3rd minute before Nigeria equalized through Bidemi Amole just two minutes into the second half.
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In a tense shootout at the 30 June Stadium, it was goalkeeper Ajia Yakubu who emerged as the hero for Nigeria — saving Egypt’s second and third spot-kicks in sensational fashion to hand the West Africans the edge.
The Flying Eagles held their nerve from 12 yards, converting four straight penalties with clinical precision, while Egypt faltered under pressure.
This victory ensures that Nigeria wraps up their AFCON U-20 campaign on a high note, finishing on the podium and reaffirming their status as one of Africa’s most successful youth sides.
With a World Cup ticket already secured, the bronze medal adds another layer of pride to a campaign marked by resilience, tactical discipline, and emerging young talents ready to shine on the global stage.
