The Super Eagles of Nigeria concluded their preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations with a narrow 2–1 defeat to Egypt in an international friendly at the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday.
Egypt took the lead in the 27th minute when Mahmoud Saber converted a low cross from Zizo to put the hosts ahead. Nigeria responded before half-time, drawing level through defender Chidozie Awaziem, who capitalised on a goalkeeping error by Mohamed El Shenawy.
The Pharaohs regained the advantage early in the second half, as Mostafa Mohamed finished clinically in the 53rd minute after a swift counter-attack that caught the Nigerian defence out of position.
Both teams made several changes as the match progressed, with Egypt coach Hossam Hassan using the opportunity to rotate his squad and manage players’ minutes ahead of the tournament. The hosts maintained control in the closing stages to see out the victory.
The result provided Egypt with a morale boost as they prepare to travel to Morocco, while Nigeria will take lessons from the encounter as they turn their focus fully to the upcoming AFCON campaign.
