Stanley Nwabali emerged as Nigeria’s unlikely hero on Saturday night after producing a string of decisive saves to help the Super Eagles edge Egypt national football team on penalties and claim the bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
After more than 95 minutes of intense football, near misses and VAR drama ended goalless, it was the composure of the Nigerian goalkeeper that finally separated both sides. Nwabali made two crucial saves in a tense shootout, handing Nigeria a hard-earned victory and a podium finish to cap their tournament in style.
The third-place playoff was anything but a consolation match, as both teams played with urgency before a vibrant crowd of 38,113 supporters, who created a fitting atmosphere for a continental showdown.
Nigeria thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half when Akor Adams powered home a close-range header after a well-worked move. However, celebrations were cut short following a VAR review that ruled the goal out for a foul in the build-up, leaving the Super Eagles visibly frustrated.
The second half followed a similar script. Nigeria controlled long spells of possession, while Egypt threatened on the counter through Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush. Ademola Lookman also saw a goal ruled out for offside shortly after the restart, adding to Nigeria’s growing sense of injustice.
As the match wore on, injuries and substitutions disrupted the rhythm. Semi Ajayi was forced off late on, while Eric Chelle introduced fresh legs in search of a breakthrough that never came. Despite several dangerous moments at both ends, neither side could find the decisive touch in regulation time or extra time, making penalties inevitable.
The shootout proved a test of nerve and composure. Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman all converted confidently for Nigeria. Egypt responded through Rami Rabia and Mahmoud Saber, but the pressure told on their biggest stars.
Omar Marmoush was denied by Nwabali, while Mohamed Salah sent his effort wide, drawing loud cheers from Nigerian supporters. Although Fisayo Dele-Bashiru missed for Nigeria to briefly keep Egypt in contention, Nwabali had the final word.
His last-gasp save sealed the contest, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Super Eagles as they secured the bronze medal.
For Nigeria, the win marked a fitting end to a demanding AFCON campaign and underlined the team’s depth and resilience. For Egypt, it was a night of missed chances and fine margins, leaving the Pharaohs to reflect on what might have been.
In the end, under the floodlights and crushing pressure of penalties, Stanley Nwabali stood tallest, guiding Nigeria to a deserved place on the AFCON podium.