Bronze heartbreak for Egypt as Salah, Marmoush miss in shootout

Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush endured fresh AFCON disappointment as Egypt lost the third-place playoff to Nigeria on penalties after a 0-0 draw. The Super Eagles had two goals ruled out, while Egypt struggled as Nigeria dominated spells. A first-half header from Paul Onuachu was disallowed for a foul, and Ademola Lookman later saw an effort flagged offside.

The match went to a shootout, where Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali proved decisive. After Nigeria’s opening kick was saved, Salah stepped up but saw his effort palmed wide. Akor Adams then scored, before Marmoush’s side-footed attempt down the middle was also saved.

Although Egypt converted their next two penalties, Nigeria stayed perfect through Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi and Lookman, whose top-corner strike sealed bronze. The result handed Salah an AFCON setback again.