Safiu Kehinde
The Flying Eagles of Nigeria have edged past Egypt on penalty shootout to secure a third-place finish at the ongoing Under-20 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Following their semi-final defeat to bitter rival, South Africa, the Aliyu Zubairu-led faced off with Egypt who were defeated by Morocco at the second semi-final match.
Despite already securing a spot at the upcoming 2025 U-20 FIFA World Cup, the Flying Eagles were keen to recompense their loss of the final spot with a third-place finish.
However, the Egyptian proved a hard nut to crack for Nigeria as they secured an early lead Omar Hassan in just three minutes of play.
Nigeria could not get the leveller despite dominant display in the first half.
They got back into the game immediately at the restart as Bidemi Amole, assisted by substitute, Divine Oliseh, fired home.the leveller.
The game advanced to a penalty shoot as the match ended 1-1 in full time.
Nigeria converted all four of their kicks through Emmanuel Chukwu, Israel Ayuma, Kparobo Arierhi and Tahir Maigana.
Egypt on the other hand has two of their kick saved by the Flying Eagles goalkeeper, Rufai Abubakar.