Nigeria’s Super Eagles redeemed their image at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), winning the bronze on Thursday. They were winners against Egypt in a famous last-gasp penalty shootout. Nigeria went on to win the final 4-2. At the same time, star Egyptian player Mohamed Salah squandered his opportunity to score during a golden chance.
The championship game played out in a nail biting, edge of the seat environment, as both teams fought hard for their newfound title. Egypt, starring Salah up front, could not finish as they fizzled under the pressure of eight total shots and nine corner kicks on the match. Salah came into the match with 11 Africa Cup goals, looking to make a statement. Nigeria’s defense made a valiant stand, and ultimately snuffed out his advances.
With the match going to a penalty shootout, it was for all the marbles. Salah’s first appearance wasn’t a good one as he stepped up to take the opening kick for Egypt, it was saved by Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. Nwabali already proved his amazing reflexes and strength by parrying away Salah’s shot to a powerful hand. This spectacular stop became the most crucial turning point in the shootout.
Both teams traded foul shots, but it was obvious that Nwabali’s play was the turning point. The Nigerian goalkeeper saved Salah’s shot, and a second penalty by Omar Marmoush cemented Nigeria’s lead. In the end, Nigeria scored four of their penalties, while Egypt missed two penalties with only two placed.
Salah’s inability to find the net only deepened the heartache for the northern African nation. Instead, they now find themselves looking back on all the missed chances that marred their entire World Cup run. He had already made some big contributions in the lead up to this match. The shootout pressure proved to be too much for him against a talented Nigerian team.
