Nigeria 1 Egypt 1 (4-1 on pens) : 94th minute substitute GK Abubakar emerges as Flying Eagles hero

Published: May 18, 2025

Nigeria’s U-20 men’s national team, the Flying Eagles, secured a third-place finish at the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations after edging hosts Egypt 4-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time at the June 30 Stadium in Cairo.

Aliyu Zubairu’s side bounced back from their semi-final disappointment to clinch the bronze medal in dramatic fashion.

The match had started poorly for Nigeria, who conceded the opening goal in the first half. Egypt capitalized on a defensive lapse to take a 1-0 lead into the break.

However, the Flying Eagles showed resilience after the interval. Substitute Bidemi Amole brought Nigeria level early in the second half, finishing calmly after a mix-up in Egypt’s defence.

The goal was only Nigeria’s fourth of the tournament, highlighting their struggles in front of goal.

Despite dominating possession and registering 27 shots with nine on target, Nigeria were unable to break the deadlock in regulation time.

Egyptian goalkeeper Ahmed Waheb delivered a superb performance to deny the West Africans several times.

In the shootout, Nigeria’s goalkeeper Rufai Abubakar who was introduced in the fourth minute of stoppage time was the hero, saving two Egyptian penalties.

Emmanuel Chukwu, Israel Ayuma, Kpaboro Ariehri and Tahir Maigana all converted confidently from the spot for Nigeria, sealing the win and sparking celebrations among the Nigerian contingent.

The result ensured Nigeria ended their AFCON U-20 campaign on a high, having previously lost to South Africa in the semi-finals.

With a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup already secured by reaching the quarter-finals, Nigeria now look forward to testing their squad on the global stage.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: EFA

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