Former Nigeria international Friday Ekpo has commended the Super Eagles for clinching the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria ended the tournament on a positive note with a hard-earned 4–2 victory over Egypt via penalties in Casablanca on Saturday, restoring some pride after earlier disappointment.
The third-place match finished scoreless after regulation time, before goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali stole the spotlight in the shootout by saving spot-kicks from Egyptian stars Mohammed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
Ademola Lookman then calmly converted the winning penalty to complete the victory, rounding off a gritty display from the three-time African champions.
Speaking after the encounter in an interview with Completesports.com, Ekpo said the result gave Nigerians a reason to smile following the Super Eagles’ semi-final defeat to Morocco on penalties.
“Perfect gift for Nigerians to celebrate with after narrowly losing the semi-final clash against Morocco on penalties. This penalty victory over Egypt shows the players’ determination to win the bronze medal.
“Yes, this is not what many Nigerians wanted from the Super Eagles at the tournament; however, they fought a good battle and still deserve to be praised for their performance in Morocco.”
