AFCON 2025: Chelle Warns Egypt as Super Eagles Target Strong Finish
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has warned Egypt to expect a determined and aggressive Super Eagles when both teams meet in the third-place match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria will face the Pharaohs in Casablanca on Wednesday as they look to end the tournament on a positive note after their painful semi-final defeat.
The Super Eagles were seen by many as strong favourites to win the title, but their hopes ended after a penalty shoot-out loss to hosts Morocco. Egypt also suffered disappointment, losing 1-0 to Senegal in the other semi-final. As a result, the playoff has become a battle of pride as both teams chase the bronze medal.
Despite the semi-final setback, Nigeria arrive with confidence from an impressive campaign. Before losing to Morocco, Chelle’s side had won all five of their matches, scored 14 goals and produced some of the tournament’s best performances. Their form had lifted spirits after missing out on the 2026 World Cup and losing the 2023 AFCON final to Côte d’Ivoire.
Chelle admitted his team fell short against Morocco but said his players are ready to respond.
“We have one more match and we must play well,” Chelle said. “We want to win because we played very well in this tournament and we want to go home with third place.
“My ideas were working before the semi-final, but in that match we lacked quality in some areas. Morocco were a strong team. Now we focus on Egypt and we will do everything to win.”
The Malian coach said finishing third would be a fair reward for the team’s efforts and an important step for the future.
“This match is important for me,” he added. “The team has done many good things and third place would reward the hard work. Egypt are a strong side with good organisation, team spirit and players who can change a game. It will be a good match.”
Egypt, seven-time African champions, are familiar opponents for Nigeria. This will be their 20th meeting, with the Super Eagles having more wins overall. However, Egypt won the last game between both teams, a 2-1 victory in Cairo before the tournament, giving Nigeria extra motivation to respond.
