Egypt vs Nigeria predicted line-ups for AFCON 2025 third-place match in Casablanca | OneFootball

Two giants seek redemption after semi-final heartbreak

Egypt vs Nigeria predicted line-ups for AFCON 2025 third-place match in Casablanca

Egypt face Nigeria on Saturday 17 January in Casablanca’s Mohammed V Stadium with both sides seeking consolation after semi final exits at AFCON 2025.

Fresh from painful defeats in the last four, two of Africa’s most decorated nations return to the pitch with pride and momentum still at stake.

Egypt fell 1 - 0 to Senegal in tight semi final, undone by late Sadio Mane strike while Nigeria pushed hosts Morocco to penalties before bowing out in Rabat.

For Egypt the tournament carried the promise of an eighth continental crown, their first since 2010.

Hossam Hassan’s side showed flashes of authority edging Benin after extra time in the round of 16 and producing their most complete performance in dramatic 3 - 2 quarter final win over Ivory Coast. Senegal, however, proved a step too far.

That defeat ended Mohamed Salah’s dream of lifting the trophy but the Pharaohs now have 90 minute to recover and claim bronze.

Expected Egypt Line-up

Nigeria arrive with their own scars. The Super Eagles failed to score for first time in the tournament against Morocco and were edged out on penalties.

Calvin Bassey is suspended, Cyriel Dessers is injured and Victor Osimhen’s fitness remains uncertain after ankle issue.

Historically Nigeria have dominated this fixture winning all eight previous third place matches of this kind.

Even without Osimhen, they retain depth through Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams and Paul Onuachu, with Wilfred Ndidi returning to anchor midfield.

Expected Nigeria Line-up