Egypt secured a 2–1 victory over Nigeria in an international friendly played in Cairo on Tuesday, completing a positive final rehearsal ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The hosts started with greater purpose and were rewarded just before the half-hour mark when Mahmoud Saber opened the scoring. Zizo, who was influential throughout the contest, broke down the right flank and delivered a precise pass to the back post, where Saber arrived unmarked to tap home from close range.
Nigeria found it difficult to establish attacking rhythm in the first half but came close to an equaliser when Paul Onuachu’s aerial challenge almost resulted in an own goal, forcing Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy into a sharp save. The Super Eagles eventually drew level through a set-piece as Zaidu Sanusi’s free kick from the left was mishandled by El Shenawy, allowing Chidozie Awaziem to react quickest and head into the net from close range.
After the interval, Egypt regained control of proceedings and restored their lead with a well-worked goal. Zizo was again at the heart of the move, helping to create space for Mostafa Mohamed, who showed composure inside the penalty area to finish clinically and put the hosts back in front.
Nigeria pushed for a response but struggled to break down an organised Egyptian defence, while the hosts managed the closing stages effectively to see out the result without major alarm.
The win provides Egypt with a confidence lift ahead of their AFCON opener against Zimbabwe on Monday, while Nigeria will look to fine-tune their preparations before facing Tanzania a day later.
