9am News report that Nigeria’s Flying Eagles secured the bronze medal at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after defeating hosts Egypt 4-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
The third-place playoff, held in front of a lively Cairo crowd, saw Nigeria claim its fifth bronze medal and 14th top-three finish in U-20 AFCON history—further cementing its reputation as a continental powerhouse in youth football.
Egypt struck first in the 3rd minute through Osama Omar, putting early pressure on Coach Aliyu Zubairu’s side. However, Nigeria responded positively after the break.
A well-timed through ball from Divine Oliseh set up Bidemi Amole, who calmly slotted past the Egyptian goalkeeper to level the score shortly into the second half.
Substitutes Tahir Maigana and Kparobo Arierhi injected fresh attacking energy, but despite Nigeria’s relentless push, neither team could find a winner in normal time.
In a tense closing phase, Egypt nearly snatched the win, with Mohamed El Sayed rattling the crossbar and Mohamed Haitham striking the post in stoppage time. With the game tied 1-1 after 90 minutes, it all came down to penalties.
Nigeria showed clinical composure from the spot, converting all four attempts. Emmanuel Chukwu, Ayuma, Arierhi, and Maigana delivered under pressure, sending the Flying Eagles to victory.
The night’s hero was goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, who saved two crucial spot kicks from Mohamed Atef and Ahmed Kabaka, sealing a memorable win for Nigeria.
This bronze medal adds to Nigeria’s proud record in youth competitions, showcasing the team’s resilience and ability to bounce back from disappointment after missing out on the final.
With this result, the Flying Eagles continue to build toward a promising future, blending fresh talent with tactical discipline qualities that have kept them among Africa’s elite at youth level.
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