Nigeria midfielder Visaīo Dele Bashiru has said that returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a bronze medal is “better than nothing,” despite the Super Eagles’ disappointment of missing out on the title.
Bashiru and his teammates secured third place after defeating Egypt on penalties in last Saturday’s match.
The victory came despite Bashiru missing the opening spot-kick, which was saved by Egypt goalkeeper Mustafa Shobeir.
Speaking to The Punch, Bashiru reflected on his first AFCON experience and the outcome for Nigeria.
“This was my first participation in the African Cup of Nations, returning home with a bronze medal is better than nothing,” he told The Punch.
“Our first goal was to win the gold medal, but that didn’t happen, and I’m just happy that we were able to leave with something.”
On his missed penalty, Bashiru explained that he chose to take the first kick because of his confidence.
“I chose to shoot first, that was my decision. It takes a lot of confidence to step up first and take a penalty kick, and I am a confident player. I believed that I would score.”
“Sometimes things don’t go your way, but in the end I’m happy that the team got the job done,” he added.
In the final, Senegal produced a stunning 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco to claim the AFCON title.
