FOOTBALL – Nigeria strengthened their unique legacy in CAF Africa Cup of Nations history after defeating Egypt 4-2 on penalties in yesterday’s third-place play-off, extending a flawless record in bronze-medal matches.
The Super Eagles held their nerve in Casablanca after a tense, goalless contest, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerging as the decisive figure in the shoot-out.
The victory means Nigeria have now won all eight third-place matches they have contested at the Afcon finals – a record unmatched by any nation in the competition’s history.
Nigeria had already entered the play-off with an extraordinary reputation, having claimed bronze on every previous occasion they reached this stage.
Yesterday’s success over Egypt not only preserved that perfect run, but also increased Nigeria’s overall bronze-medal tally to nine, further distancing them from their continental rivals.
While Egypt arrived with their own proud history in third-place matches – having won three of their previous five – they were unable to disrupt Nigeria’s dominance in this particular fixture.
The Pharaohs were edged out in a shoot-out that underlined the Super Eagles’ composure and consistency in high-pressure situations.
Historically, Afcon third-place matches have produced drama, goals and controversy, but Nigeria’s relationship with the bronze medal has been defined by control and efficiency.
Yesterday’s result also capped another strong Afcon campaign for Nigeria, who reached the semi-finals with the tournament’s most potent attack before falling narrowly to hosts Morocco on penalties.
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