The Super Eagles of Nigeria suffered a 2–1 defeat to the Pharaohs of Egypt in an international friendly played on Tuesday night at the Cairo International Stadium, as both sides continued preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Egypt took the lead in the 28th minute when Mahmoud Saber finished from close range after a ball played in behind left-back Zaidu Sanusi was flashed across the face of the goal for an easy tap-in.
The Super Eagles responded just before the break, drawing level in stoppage time. Chidozie Awaziem capitalised on a goalkeeping error, bundling the ball home after Egypt’s goalkeeper flapped at Sanusi’s free kick in the 45+2 minute.
The first half ended with the scores level at 1–1.
Egypt restored its advantage eight minutes into the second half through Mostafa Mohamed, who fired the ball beneath goalkeeper Amas Obasogie. The goal appeared offside, but it stood, giving the hosts a 2–1 lead in the 53rd minute.
Despite efforts from Nigeria to find an equaliser, Egypt held on to secure the win.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to depart Cairo on Thursday aboard a chartered flight to the Moroccan city of Fès, where they will continue their AFCON preparations.
Nigeria will begin their AFCON 2025 campaign next Tuesday against Tanzania, with kick-off set for 6:30pm.
Uche Dozie