Nigeria and Egypt will renew one of Africa Cup of Nations’ oldest rivalries on Saturday (today) in the third-place play-off of the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
The Super Eagles, eliminated by hosts Morocco on penalties after a 0–0 semi-final draw, aim to secure a ninth bronze medal and draw level with Egypt on 64 AFCON wins, the most by any nation. Egypt, meanwhile, seeks a fourth third-place finish, adding to previous successes in 1963, 1970, and 1974.
This will be the 10th AFCON meeting between the sides and the 20th overall, underlining a rivalry spanning over six decades. Nigeria leads the AFCON head-to-head record with five wins, two draws, and two losses, while Egypt won the most recent encounter, a 2–1 friendly in December 2025.
Historically, Nigeria has a perfect record in third-place matches, winning all seven previous encounters, including four 1–0 victories. Egypt has contested five third-place games, winning three.
Top players will also be in focus. For Nigeria, Victor Osimhen and key performers like Stanley Nwabali and Calvin Bassey have been instrumental in the tournament. Egypt will look to Mohamed Salah, who could become the country’s all-time top AFCON scorer, and Omar Marmoush to lead the attack.
The clash promises another thrilling chapter in a long-standing rivalry, with pride, records, and history on the line for both teams.
