AFCON 2025: Nwabali speaks on Nigeria v Egypt third place match

Even though he was seen as the main man who led Super Eagles to clinch the third position in the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali said that the bronze medal win was a product of collective effort after his penalty saves sealed victory over Egypt.

Nwabali was named Man of the Match after saving two penalties in Nigeria’s 4–2 shootout win over Egypt.

The AFCON 2025 third-place play-off ended goalless in regulation time, before penalties decided the bronze medal.

News Agency of Nigeria reported Nwabali describing the encounter as tense, with both teams determined to avoid costly errors.

“It was a very difficult match against a great Egyptian team; Nobody wanted to make a mistake,” he said.

The goalkeeper said that composure was key during the shootout.

“I stayed calm, read the takers and trusted my instincts; Thankfully, it worked for us,” he said.

The Port Harcourt boy credited teamwork and defensive discipline for Nigeria’s success.

“This victory came from collective effort. The defenders were incredible, and everyone stayed united,” he noted.

Nwabali said that individual recognition was secondary to the team’s achievement.

“Being Man of the Match feels good, but winning the bronze medal for Nigeria matters more,” he said.

The goalkeeper praised the team’s resilience after earlier disappointment in the tournament.

“We had setbacks, but we stayed focused and believed in ourselves until the end,” Nwabali added.