The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, suffered a 2-1 defeat to the Pharaohs of Egypt in an international friendly on Tuesday night, December 16. The match, played at the Cairo International Stadium, served as crucial preparation for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Match Breakdown: Pharaohs Take Control in Cairo
The hosts, Egypt, opened the scoring in the 28th minute through winger Mahmoud Saber of ZED FC. The goal was set up by Al Ahly's creative force, Zizo. Nigeria responded just before halftime, with defender Chigozie Awaziem capitalizing on a handling error from Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy. The equalizer came from a rebounded free kick taken by Zaidu Sanusi in the third minute of added time.
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle made a staggering six changes at the break, introducing players like Amas Obasogie, Semi Ajayi, and Cyriel Dessers. However, Egypt restored their lead in the 53rd minute. Striker Mostafa Mohamed found the net, with Zizo registering his second assist of the evening.
Osimhen's Void Looms Large for Super Eagles
The result extends a worrying pattern for the three-time AFCON champions. This marks their third consecutive match without a victory under coach Eric Chelle when missing talismanic forward Victor Osimhen. The Galatasaray striker's absence was palpable, as replacements Paul Onuachu and Cyriel Dessers failed to convert promising opportunities.
The friendly was a final test before the continental tournament, scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Nigeria's performance raised questions about their attacking potency and defensive solidity ahead of the main competition.
Lineup Changes and Key Moments
Nigeria's starting lineup featured Stanley Nwabali in goal, but he was replaced at halftime by Obasogie. Other notable substitutions included Ademola Lookman, the 2024 CAF Player of the Year, coming on for Raphael Onyedika. Despite moments of pressure, including a close chance from a Frank Onyeka through ball in the 40th minute, the Super Eagles lacked the cutting edge to secure a result against a disciplined Egyptian side.
The defeat provides Coach Chelle with critical footage to analyze as he finalizes his plans and squad for AFCON 2025, where Nigeria will be desperate to rediscover their winning form.
