AFCON 2025: Egypt vs Nigeria preview, prediction, team news, and head-to-head

Both teams will hope to redeem themselves after failing to reach the finals of the tournament. This game offers each side a chance to finish the tournament on a positive note and restore pride as the competition in Morocco comes to an end.

Egypt come into this match after a narrow 1–0 defeat to Senegal in the semi-finals, with Sadio Mané scoring late to end their hopes of winning a record eighth AFCON title. While the Pharaohs were solid at the back, they struggled to create chances and failed to make the most of Mohamed Salah’s presence.

Having finished third in the tournament three times before, in 1963, 1970, and 1974, Egypt will be keen to avoid back-to-back losses and finish the competition on a positive note.

Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the final ended after a penalty shootout loss to Morocco following a 0–0 draw. The Super Eagles had been the tournament’s highest-scoring team with 14 goals before the semi-final but could not find a way past Morocco’s strong defence.

Nigeria have a strong history in third-place matches, winning it eight times, more than any other team in AFCON.

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In recent years, the meetings between Egypt and Nigeria have been keenly contested. However the North African team have enjoyed an upper hand with 4 wins in the last 7 matches (D1, L2).

Egypt are likely to be without left-back Mohamed Hamdi, who has failed to recover in time after missing the semi-final. Hossam Hassan could also make changes in midfield, with Mohanad Lasheen in contention for a starting spot.

Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush are expected to spearhead the attack as they aim to increase their goal numbers.

Nigeria will have to reshuffle their defence, as Calvin Bassey is suspended after picking up yellow cards in two straight matches. There are also fitness concerns over Victor Osimhen, who was taken off late in the semi-final with an injury.

Should the former African Footballer of the Year be ruled out, Akor Adams or Onuachu could be used in a more central attack.

Egypt: El Shenawy; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Fatouh; Attia, Fathi, Adel; Salah, Marmoush, Trezeguet

Nigeria: Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Awaziem, Onyemaechi; Onyeka, Onyedika, Iwobi; Lookman, Adams, Onuachu

After the heartbreak of missing out on the final, both teams will be eager to respond, but the Super Eagles appear to have a slight edge against the Pharaohs.

You can bet at Livescorebet that the Nigerian side will win this fixture, provided the match doesn't get into extra time or decided by penalty shootout.

Predictions: Egypt 0-1 Nigeria

Bet on Nigeria to win

Under 2.5 goals