Click here to watch Egypt vs Nigeria for the AFCON 2025 3rd Place on beIN SPORTS

A third-place match with pride on the line

Sometimes, the third-place playoff in a tournament can be a low-key affair between two teams either celebrating an unexpected run in the tournament, or with sides desperately wanting to be on the plane home.

Saturday’s clash between Egypt and Nigeria live on beIN SPORTS feels different. It has the sense of a match between two giants of African football that have some unfinished business to work through.

Egypt look to close AFCON on a high

Although Egypt was eliminated by Senegal by just the single goal and a moment of magic from Sadio Mané, the Pharaohs will be feeling frustrated that they never came close to fulfilling their potential in the match.

Head coach Hossam Hassan blamed less preparation time going into the game than the opponents, but asserted that Egypt will want to go out with a win on Saturday.
“No one will achieve seven (AFCON) titles like the Egyptian national team. The Egyptian national team is great.”

Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that Mohamed Salah will be taking part in the game before returning to his club.

Nigeria aim to respond after penalty heartbreak

Nigeria was even closer to a second successive Africa Cup of Nations final than Egypt, and ultimately lost in a penalty shootout after a period of extra time. This grueling effort for no reward could have a major impact on the performance of the Super Eagles on Saturday.

However, head coach Eric Chelle also says that he intends to go out with a bang.
“I’m proud of my players, but I’m disappointed for them because the reality is we were maybe—maybe—the best team, maybe, in this AFCON. So, we have to go out with pride."

Match details

Saturday, January 17
10:50 AM ET / 7:50 AM PT
Egypt vs Nigeria – Live on beIN SPORTS Connect

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