Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was deservedly named Man of the Match on Saturday evening after producing an outstanding performance to help Nigeria secure the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles goalkeeper emerged as the hero, saving two penalties from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush as Nigeria defeated Egypt 4-2 in the shootout following a tense contest that finished level after extra time.
Nigerian brick wall. 🇳🇬🧤
Stanley Nwabali is the TotalEnergies Man of the Match. #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 | @Football2Gether pic.twitter.com/IyGSiGMBHe— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) January 17, 2026
The third-place play-off was marked by drama and controversy, with Nigeria coming close to breaking the deadlock in the first half. In the 35th minute, Samuel Chukwueze delivered a perfectly lofted pass that found Akor Adams, who rose highest to power a close-range header beyond goalkeeper Oufa Shobeir.
However, celebrations were quickly halted as a VAR review was initiated, and the referee eventually disallowed the goal for a foul in the build-up, leaving the Nigerian players visibly frustrated.
The drama continued after the restart when Ademola Lookman saw another Nigeria goal ruled out. His effort was disallowed for offside, sparking further anger and disbelief among the Super Eagles as fine margins continued to deny them an opening goal.
Egypt also had their moment of controversy late in the match. Omar Marmoush went down in the penalty area following a challenge, but the referee initially waved play on. Moments later, referee Jalal Jayed indicated he would review the incident after receiving communication, adding to the growing tension as both teams awaited the outcome.
With neither side able to find the breakthrough through regulation time and extra time, the match was decided from the penalty spot. It was in the shootout that Nwabali rose to the occasion, producing two crucial saves to give Nigeria the edge. The Super Eagles converted four of their penalties, while Egypt managed just two, sealing a hard-fought victory.
Nwabali’s composure and shot-stopping ability under pressure proved decisive, earning him the Man of the Match award and ensuring Nigeria finished their AFCON 2025 campaign on the podium.
The Super Eagles will lineup to receive their bronze medals on Sunday after the final between Senegal and Morocco.
