Nigeria's Flying Eagles defeated host nation Egypt via penalties to clinch third place at the 2025 U-20 AFCON. A late goalkeeper substitution and inspired second-half performance sealed the 4-1 shootout win.
- Egypt scored early through Omar Osama, but Nigeria responded after halftime with a goal from Bidemi Amole.
- Divine Oliseh pressed Egypt’s captain into a turnover, leading to Nigeria’s equaliser just after the break.
- Coach Zubairu introduced 17-year-old third-choice goalkeeper Abubakar Rufai before penalties—he saved two decisive spot-kicks.
The Flying Eagles showed depth, courage, and tactical discipline, even without several first-team players. Rufai’s unexpected heroics became the heart of the story—proof that belief and bold calls can shift outcomes. It was a day for underdogs.
With back-to-back bronze medals, can Nigeria convert youth promise into senior success? The road to future AFCON and World Cup campaigns begins with nurturing talents like Rufai.
