Nigeria’s Super Eagles suffered a narrow 2–1 defeat to Egypt on Tuesday night in a high-tempo pre-Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) friendly at the Cairo International Stadium.
The warm-up encounter served as a final test for both sides ahead of the 2025 AFCON, which kicks off in Morocco on December 21, and provided a competitive contest, with the hosts securing a hard-earned victory in front of their home supporters.
Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan rested key stars Mohamed Salah of Liverpool and Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush, while Super Eagles coach Eric Sekou Chelle handed a first international start to Pisa midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro.
The Pharaohs took the lead in the 28th minute when midfielder Mahmoud Saber met a cross from Ahmed ‘Zizo’ Sayed, firing a right-footed effort into an empty net.
Nigeria responded strongly and drew level in first-half stoppage time, with defender Chidozie Awaziem heading home from close range after a well-delivered free kick.
At the restart, Chelle introduced several changes, as Amas Obasogie replaced Stanley Nwabali in goal, Bruno Onyemaechi came on for Zaidu Sanusi, Semi Ajayi replaced Awaziem, Cyriel Dessers took the place of Akinsanmiro, and Ademola Lookman was introduced for Raphael Onyedika.
Despite the reshuffle, Egypt regained the lead in the 52nd minute through Mohammed, and the hosts held firm thereafter, repelling a spirited Nigerian fightback. Another debutant, Salim Fago Lawal, also made his first appearance, replacing defender Igoh Ogbu in the 85th minute.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles forwards Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon are expected to fly directly to Morocco to join the squad after missing the friendly in Cairo.
New invitee Usman Mohammed and Fulham winger Samuel Chukwueze linked up with the team in Cairo, bringing the travelling party to 26 players.
Nigeria, drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Uganda and Tunisia, are scheduled to depart Cairo on Wednesday aboard a chartered flight to their AFCON base in Fes.
