Egypt secured a morale-boosting victory over Nigeria on Tuesday night, edging the Super Eagles 2–1 in an international friendly played in Cairo as both teams fine-tuned preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations.
The hosts took control early and were rewarded in the 29th minute when Mahmoud Saber finished from close range after sustained pressure down the right, with Zizo once again at the heart of the move.
Egypt’s dominance in the opening half underlined what would later become a familiar theme of the Egypt Nigeria friendly defeat for the Super Eagles.
Nigeria struggled to impose themselves going forward but came close to an equaliser when Paul Onuachu’s long delivery nearly forced an own goal, prompting a quick reaction save from goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
Moments later, the Super Eagles found their way back into the game. Zaidu Sanusi’s free kick from the left slipped through El Shenawy’s grasp, allowing Chidozie Awaziem to head home from close range.
Egypt regrouped after the break and restored their lead through Mostafa Mohamed, who finished calmly inside the box following another incisive attacking move involving Zizo.
The goal proved decisive and effectively sealed the Egypt Nigeria friendly defeat, as Nigeria failed to mount a sustained response.
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Despite late pressure, the Super Eagles could not find a second equaliser, and Egypt comfortably managed the closing stages to round off an encouraging final warm-up ahead of AFCON.
The result will raise questions for Nigeria’s coaching crew as the Egypt Nigeria friendly defeat exposed areas needing attention before competitive action begins.
Egypt will open their AFCON campaign against Zimbabwe on Monday, while Nigeria are set to face Tanzania a day later.