Nigeria extended their perfect record in the Africa Cup of Nations third place play-off, defeating Egypt 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless 90 minutes at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca on Saturday. The Super Eagles have now won all eight of their appearances in the bronze medal match at the continental showpiece. Despite a strong tournament, Mohamed Salah and his side will head home empty handed. Nigeria were without five key players in their starting XI as Calvin Bassey was suspended, Wilfred Ndidi and Victor Osimhen did not feature and Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman came off the bench. Egypt made a change in goal and Manchester City star Omar Marmoush started on the bench. Egypt created the first attacking threat. Trézéguet crossed the ball into the area in the second minute but Stanley Nwabali intercepted the ball before it could reach its intended target, averting the danger. Mohamed Salah sent a well-weighted ball forward for Trézéguet in the 17th minute, forcing Nwabali to rush off his line Salah continued to create chances, playing Zizo into the Nigerian box in the 24th minute. Zizo attempted to cut the ball back for Trézéguet at the byline, but his pass was sent behind for a corner by the Nigerian defence. Salah had a chance of his own at goal in the 27th minute. Mohamed Hany’s cross looking for the Liverpool winger at the near post was bobbled by Nwabali to give Salah another chance, which was blocked by Semi Ajayi. Nigeria were denied the opening goal in the 39th minute after a quick VAR check. Paul Onuachu received a yellow card for elbowing his defender in the box in the build up to Akor Adams’ header, albeit unintentionally. Continue on SuperSport.
