Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerged the hero for Nigeria as the Super Eagles secured the bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), following a 4–2 penalty shootout victory over Egypt in Casablanca.

The game had to be decided straight from penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time.

Eric Chelle’s side showed strong character to bounce back from their semi-final disappointment against hosts Morocco earlier in the week, in the same fashion, ensuring they concluded their campaign positively with a place on the podium.

The penalty shootout belonged to Nwabali. The Nigeria shot-stopper, who plays for Chippa United in South Africa, produced two outstanding saves to deny Egypt’s star men — captain Mohamed Salah and forward Omar Marmoush — turning the contest firmly in Nigeria’s favour.

Nigeria’s shootout did not begin smoothly, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru seeing his effort saved by Egypt goalkeeper Ouba Shobeir. But Nwabali quickly restored momentum with consecutive saves from Salah and Marmoush.

Calm finishes from Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman sealed the victory and confirmed Nigeria’s bronze medal finish.

“It was a very difficult match against a great Egyptian team,” said Nwabali, who was Man of the Match.

“Both sides were solid and no one wanted to make a mistake. During the penalty shootout, I stayed calm. I tried to read the takers and trust my instinct. Thankfully, it worked for us. This victory is the result of collective effort. The defenders were incredible, and the entire team stayed united until the very end.”

Courtesy of Cafonline.com