|
Listen to article
|
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle has hailed his players following Nigeria’s AFCON third-place playoff win against Egypt on Saturday.
Chelle said Super Eagles players gave everything for him, adding that they also won his respect.
The Malian watched as Nigeria won the bronze medal, thanks to a 4-2 penalty win against Egypt.
The encounter had ended in a goalless draw after 90 minutes as goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali saved the penalties of Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
“You know it’s not easy when a French guy comes and I was so demanding with them,” Chelle said at his post-match interview.
“I’m very proud of them, they gave everything for me, and for sure they win my respect for life.”
Nigeria banished their penalty shoot-out demons, as they defeated Egypt via spot-kicks to win the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles had lost to hosts Morocco via penalties in the semi-final.
And against the Pharoahs, the game had to be decided from 12 yards, after it ended 0-0 after 90 minutes.
There was no extra time in the match.
During the shoot-out, Stanley Nwabali proved to be the hero of the day, as he saved from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
Nigeria eventually ran out 4-2 winners, clinching the bronze medal for a record ninth time.
The final will be played tomorrow between Morocco and Senegal.
Ghanaian referee, Daniel Nii Laryea, is not bothered about the criticisms of his officiating, as Nigeria lost on penalties to Morocco in the semi-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday night.
The game was decided via spot-kicks after it ended goalless in 120 minutes.
