Egypt Vs Nigeria: Prediction , Preview, Kick-off Time, Venue, Team News and Head-to-Head Record

Egypt Vs Nigeria: Prediction , Preview, Kick-off Time, Venue, Team News and Head-to-Head Record

By Niyi Busari 

Egypt and Nigeria will face off in the Africa Cup of Nations third-place play-off this weekend, with both sides aiming to finish the tournament on a positive note, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Often regarded as the most bittersweet fixture of major international competitions, the playoff offers a bronze medal as recognition of consistency and resilience over the course of the tournament. For Egypt and Nigeria, it also presents a chance to restore pride after falling short of their ultimate objective.

Both teams entered the competition as pre-tournament favourites but were halted at the semi-final stage. 

Egypt suffered a narrow defeat to Senegal in Wednesday’s first semi-final, while Nigeria were edged out by hosts Morocco after a penalty shootout in Rabat.

Date, Kick-off Time and Venue

The third-place playoff between Egypt and Nigeria will kick off at 4:00pm GMT on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

The match will be played at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, Morocco.

Team News

Egypt winger Trezeguet recovered from injury to feature in the semi-final loss to Senegal, though Mohamed Hamdi was ruled out and remains a doubt for Saturday’s clash. Following a subdued attacking display, head coach Hossam Hassan may consider changes to his starting line-up.

Despite underwhelming performances in the semi-final, Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush are expected to retain their places, having struggled largely due to a lack of service rather than individual shortcomings.

Nigeria will be without defender Calvin Bassey, who is suspended after receiving a yellow card in the semi-final. The centre-back delivered an impressive performance against Morocco but will miss the playoff as a result of the booking.

There is positive news for the Super Eagles, however, as captain Wilfred Ndidi returns from suspension. Defender, Ryan Alebiosu is recovering very fast from the injury he sustained during his debut for Nigeria against Uganda in Fez, while Victor Osimhen’s fitness remains uncertain after he was forced off late in extra time during the semi-final. 

Match Prediction

Both teams struggled to convert chances in the semi-finals, and another closely contested encounter is expected. Much could depend on the influence of the star forwards, with Egypt’s Salah and Marmoush set to go head-to-head against Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams.

With pride and a bronze medal at stake, the match should be competitive and entertaining.

Prediction: Nigeria to win 2–1.

Head-to-Head Record

Egypt wins: 6

Nigeria wins: 9

Draws: 5