Egypt vs Nigeria Prediction: AFCON Third-Place Playoff Preview

The Egypt vs Nigeria prediction for the AFCON third-place playoff is about control. Egypt face Nigeria on 17 January 2026. Bronze is still a prize. Pride matters too. Both teams must reset after semi-final defeats.

Nigeria drew 0–0 with Morocco after extra time. Morocco won the shoot-out. Egypt lost 1–0 to Senegal after a late strike. For context, see the AFCON semi-final results recap.

Egypt vs Nigeria preview

Egypt’s recent form has been mixed, but their approach is consistent. They defend in compact lines, protect the centre, and slow the tempo with controlled possession. That style often keeps games tight and limits open transitions, even when their attacking rhythm is not perfect.

Nigeria arrive with more attacking momentum and a faster tempo. They press higher, move the ball forward earlier, and look to break quickly after turnovers. The key contrast is pace: Egypt will try to manage the game into a slower tactical battle, while Nigeria will push for a more vertical contest.

Key players to watch

Mohamed Salah remains Egypt’s main outlet, with four AFCON goals and one assist. He also wins fouls in dangerous wide areas. Trezeguet has been decisive as well, delivering five goals and two assists so far. Zizo adds a direct threat from the right side, with two goals and one assist. Up front, Mostafa Mohamed provides link play and physical presence, contributing one goal and two assists.

Marwan Attia matters for Egypt’s balance. He has two assists. He also carries four yellow cards. That can change duels in midfield. It also raises suspension risk if the game gets heated.

Nigeria have more finishers. Victor Osimhen has four goals and two assists, while Ademola Lookman has three goals and four assists. Together, their movement stretches back lines, and the pace can punish tired defenders late on.

Game script and match edges

Egypt should start in a lower block and protect the centre. The plan will likely focus on quick Salah-led breaks. Nigeria, meanwhile, may press earlier to win the ball high, attack through the wings, and send runners beyond Osimhen.

Set pieces are a real swing factor. Egypt can target second balls. Nigeria can win aerial duels. If the match stays level late, corners and free kicks can decide it.

If Nigeria score first, the game should open up and Egypt will need to take more risks. That can leave space for Lookman on the break. If Egypt score first, Nigeria can still raise the tempo, add fresh attackers, and keep pressure through wide deliveries.

Egypt vs Nigeria odds and recommended betting markets

AFCON third place prediction

The clean angle is Nigeria onside. Nigeria or Draw fits their form. It also fits the price. A second angle is goals staying moderate. Under 2.0 goals matches Egypt’s structure.

Our Egypt vs Nigeria prediction leans Nigeria by one goal. A 0–1 or 1–2 scoreline is plausible. A 1–1 draw after 90 minutes is also live.

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