AFCON: Osimhen, Lookman Benched As Chukwueze Starts For Nigeria Against Egypt

Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman have been left out of Nigeria’s starting lineup for Saturday’s AFCON 2025 third-place match against Egypt.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle made several changes to his squad for the final game of the tournament in Morocco, with Osimhen, Lookman, and Alex Iwobi named among the substitutes.

Paul Onuachu will lead Nigeria’s attack, while Moses Simon has been handed the captain’s armband and will operate from the wing.

In defence, Igoh Ogbu comes into the lineup to replace the suspended Calvin Bassey.

Samuel Chukwueze, despite missing a penalty in Nigeria’s semi-final loss, has been included in the starting eleven. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru also earned a place in the midfield.

Nigeria will be aiming to secure a ninth bronze medal in AFCON history. The Super Eagles have never lost a third-place playoff match.

Nigeria Starting XI: Nwabali; Ajayi, Ogbu, Onyemaechi, Osayi-Samuel; Dele-Bashiru, Onyedika, Chukwueze, Simon, Adams, Onuachu

KanyiDaily recalls that Nigeria’s Super Eagles lost to the host nation, Morocco, on penalties, a result that sent the Atlas Lions through to the AFCON final.