AFCON: Osimhen, Lookman Benched as Chukwueze Starts in Nigeria’s Third-Place Clash With Egypt

RABAT, Morocco — Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has made notable changes to Nigeria’s starting line-up for the AFCON 2025 third-place match against Egypt, benching key stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman for Saturday’s encounter.

Also named among the substitutes is Alex Iwobi, as Chelle reshuffles his squad for Nigeria’s final game of the tournament. The coach made five changes from the team that lost to South Africa in the semi-finals, signalling a mix of rotation and tactical adjustment.

Paul Onuachu will lead the attack against the Pharaohs, while Moses Simon takes over the captain’s armband, starting on the wing. In defence, Igoh Ogbu comes into the starting XI, replacing the suspended Calvin Bassey.

Samuel Chukwueze, who missed a penalty in Nigeria’s semi-final defeat, has been handed a starting role as Chelle shows faith in the winger’s ability to bounce back. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru also features in the line-up, completing the midfield options selected for the clash.

Nigeria and Egypt meet in the third-place playoff aiming to end their AFCON 2025 campaigns on a positive note after falling short in the semi-finals. The match offers both sides a chance to claim bronze and restore pride following their respective disappointments in Morocco.