Egypt, Nigeria chase redemption and AFCON bronze after semi-final heartbreak

As the curtains prepare to fall on AFCON 2025, Egypt and Nigeria find themselves in a position neither team anticipated: grappling for pride in the third-place playoff at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca today.

With hopes of clinching the coveted trophy dashed midweek, both historical heavyweights are now chasing redemption and a bronze medal.

In the semi-finals, Egypt suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Senegal. Meanwhile, Nigeria faced heartbreak of their own, losing to host nation Morocco in a tense penalty shootout following a goalless draw after extra time. As they prepare to go head-to-head, both sides will aim to shake off their disappointment and exit the continental competition with a commendable finish.

Despite their semi-final setback, Nigeria has consistently demonstrated potential throughout the tournament. The Super Eagles stormed into the last four boasting five wins from five games, including impressive victories over Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda, which cemented their position at the top of Group C.

Their sparkling form continued through the knockout stages, highlighted by a commanding 4-0 triumph against Mozambique and a comfortable 2-0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals.

However, Nigeria’s pursuit of a fourth AFCON title was abruptly halted by Morocco, as the team fell victim to a penalty shootout after 120 minutes of stalemate. This heartbreaking end to their title journey makes Saturday’s match crucial for morale.

Egypt, on the other hand, approached their semi-final with hopes of restoring former glory but were ultimately outplayed by Senegal in a match where they held less than 40% possession. Despite their efforts, the Pharaohs could not convert limited chances into goals, and Sadio Mane’s 78th-minute strike sealed their fate.

Egypt had previously finished the group stage strongly, clinching the top spot in Group B with seven points from a possible nine, followed by a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Benin and a thrilling quarter-final triumph against Ivory Coast.

The historic rivalry between Egypt and Nigeria adds an extra layer of intensity to Saturday’s clash, with both teams fiercely determined to assert their dominance. Egypt’s last victory over Nigeria in AFCON came in January 2010; they will be looking to end that drought while securing a third-place finish for the first time since 1974.

Conversely, the Super Eagles will seek to reaffirm their credentials as one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses with a victory to restore pride. With both teams poised for a fierce contest, fans can expect an electrifying encounter as these giants clash to salvage respect and honor from a tournament of mixed fortunes.