After falling short in the semi-finals, the Flying Eagles bounced back in style, defying the odds and silencing a partisan Cairo crowd to claim third place at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria edged hosts Egypt 4-1 on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw, sealing a memorable bronze medal finish.
Though neither side made it to the final, pride was on the line as Nigeria and Egypt squared off under the Cairo lights.
For the Flying Eagles, it was a chance to end the tournament on a high, and they did just that, clinching their fifth bronze medal in the competition’s history.
The game began with a setback for Nigeria, as Egypt capitalised on a defensive lapse to take a 1-0 lead into halftime.
However, the Flying Eagles responded swiftly after the break. Head coach Aliyu Zubairu made key changes, and one of them paid off almost immediately.
Substitute Bidemi Olalekan Amole found the back of the net in the 47th minute, calmly finishing after a mix-up in Egypt’s defence.
The goal was assisted by Divine Uchechukwu Oliseh and gave Nigeria renewed energy going into the remainder of the second half.
Despite efforts from both sides to find a winner, the game ended 1-1 in regulation, forcing a penalty shootout.
Coach Zubairu made a bold move by introducing 17-year-old goalkeeper Rufai Abubakar late in the match, a decision that proved inspired.
Abubakar became the hero of the night, saving two penalties.
Emmanuel Chukwu, Israel Ayuma, Kpaboro Ariehri, and Tahir Maigana all converted their penalties to seal the victory.
With a ticket to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup already secured by reaching the quarter-finals, the team will now set their sights on challenging the world’s best on the global stage.
