Nigeria’s U-20 national team, the Flying Eagles, secured the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations after defeating hosts Egypt 4–1 on penalties in Cairo on Sunday.
The third-place match, played at the 30 June Stadium, ended 1–1 in regulation time before going to a penalty shootout.
Egypt took an early lead in the third minute when Osama Omar found the back of the net. Nigeria responded shortly after the interval, with Bidemi Amole finishing off a well-placed pass from Divine Oliseh to draw level.
Both sides pressed for a winner in the closing stages of the game, with Egypt coming close twice. Efforts from Mohamed El Sayed and Mohamed Haitham struck the woodwork, denying the hosts a late advantage.
In the ensuing penalty shootout, Nigeria held their nerve, converting all four spot-kicks. Egypt, however, faltered, with Mohamed Atef and Ahmed Kabaka failing to convert their penalties.
The victory sealed Nigeria’s fifth bronze medal in the history of the U-20 AFCON.
Earlier in the competition, the Flying Eagles had defeated defending champions Senegal in the quarter-finals, also via penalties, to reach the last four and secure qualification for the upcoming FIFA U-20 World Cup.
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