The Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Pharaohs of Egypt have confirmed their starting elevens ahead of this evening’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) third-place play-off in Casablanca, with kick-off set for 5 pm Nigerian time.
Both sides, bruised but unbowed after semi-final heartbreak, will line up in identical 4-3-3 formations as they vie for a consolatory bronze medal in what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter between two of Africa’s footballing heavyweights.
Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, has opted for continuity, fielding a familiar and balanced side that blends defensive resilience with attacking flair.
Stanley Nwabali retains his place between the sticks, shielded by a back four comprising Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Igoh Ogbu and Bruno Onyemaechi.
In midfield, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika are tasked with anchoring the centre of the park, while Samuel Chukwueze is handed a more advanced role, expected to pull the strings behind the front three.
Up front, Paul Onuachu leads the line, flanked by the pace and trickery of Moses Simon and the physical presence of Akor Adams.
Nigeria Starting XI:
Stanley Nwabali; Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Igoh Ogbu, Bruno Onyemaechi; Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Raphael Onyedika, Samuel Chukwueze; Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Paul Onuachu.
Egypt, meanwhile, are chasing their first third-place finish at the continental showpiece since 1974. Manager Rui Vitória has named a side brimming with experience and attacking intent.
Mohamed El Shenawy starts in goal, with Mohamed Hany, Yasser Ibrahim, Rami Rabia and Ahmed Fatouh forming a solid defensive line.
The midfield trio of Marwan Attia, Emam Ashour and Hamdy Fathy will look to dictate the tempo and link play with the forwards.
In attack, the Pharaohs boast a potent front line, with Mohamed Salah and Trezeguet supporting striker Mostafa Mohamed in what could be a decisive factor in tonight’s clash.
Egypt Starting XI:
Mohamed El Shenawy; Mohamed Hany, Yasser Ibrahim, Rami Rabia, Ahmed Fatouh; Marwan Attia, Emam Ashour, Hamdy Fathy; Mohamed Salah, Trezeguet, Mostafa Mohamed.
The match pits two of the continent’s most decorated sides against each other, both eager to end their campaigns on a high.
Nigeria were edged out by Morocco on penalties after a goalless draw in the semi-finals, while Egypt suffered a narrow defeat to Senegal.
With pride, history, and a podium finish at stake, all eyes now turn to Casablanca for what promises to be a thrilling finale to their AFCON 2025 journeys.
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