The Super Eagles of Nigeria secured the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday, defeating Egypt via a penalty shootout, Soccernet.ng reports.
This victory made it a record ninth third-place finish for the West African giants, who were narrowly knocked out in the semifinals by the hosts, Morocco.
Despite the initial disappointment of missing the final, the players remained in high spirits going into the bronze medal match.
They already established themselves as one of the tournament's best teams through their dominant performances in previous round. And perhaps, if not for Morocco's home advantage, it would have been a different result on the night.
Following the win, the Super Eagles' locker room was graced by a familiar legend Kanu Nwankwo. The former Arsenal star and African football icon visited the players and staff during their post-match celebrations.
Kanu’s legacy in African football is big; in fact, staple. He is a two-time CAF Player of the Year (1996 and 1999), and he remains one of the most influential Nigerians to have ever played in the English Premier League.
Although an AFCON title eluded him during his career, he won three bronze medals and one silver.
His presence was particularly meaningful, as he apparently understands the mentality required to bounce back and finish a tournament on a high note, having reached the latter stages of the AFCON on several occasions himself.
The Super Eagles players were visibly ecstatic to see him, dancing and singing along to Super Eagles hype songs.
The excitement was understandable. Many of these players grew up watching Kanu and aspiring to be like him someday.
So, sharing a dressing room with their childhood idol made the bronze medal celebration truly special.
Watch: Super Eagles Celebration With Kanu Nwankwo
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Now that their 2025 AFCON campaign is over, the Super Eagles players will head out to their various clubs and continue the season.
This is the important part of the season, and they will look to help their various employers end the campaign on a high.
The will be another AFCON next year. So Nigeria will get another opportunity to win a fourth crown. Most of these players will likely be in that competition, and they will hope to do one better.
