Nigeria's Super Eagles faced a narrow 2-1 defeat against the Pharaohs of Egypt in an international friendly at the Cairo International Stadium, serving as their sole warm-up match before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. This victory marked the end of Egypt's nine-year winless streak against the West African rivals.

Despite having only two full training sessions, Nigeria started the game with confidence, dictating the early rhythm. Head coach Eric Chelle opted for his preferred 4-4-2 diamond formation, with Stanley Nwabali in goal, shielded by a back four of Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, Chidozie Awaziem, and Bright Osayi-Samuel. Ebenezer Akinsanmiro made his Super Eagles debut in midfield, supported by Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Frank Onyeka. Paul Onuachu led the attack alongside Chidera Ejuke.

Nigeria's midfield maintained possession for extended periods, and Osayi-Samuel's pace often helped alleviate pressure. Onuachu effectively used his physical presence to hold up play, while Ejuke displayed flashes of skill, though his final delivery lacked precision. Egypt, however, began to exploit Nigeria’s left flank, with Zizo repeatedly finding space against Sanusi. This pressure culminated in the 27th or 28th minute when Nigeria's defense momentarily switched off. Zizo cut the ball back from the byline, allowing Mahmoud Saber to tap into an empty net, giving Egypt the lead.

The Super Eagles responded positively, increasing their tempo and pressing higher. Their equalizer came deservedly when Zaidu Sanusi's low free-kick struck the post (or ricocheted off several bodies), and Awaziem reacted quickest to head the ball home from close range. This marked Awaziem’s second international goal, his first since 2018. The teams went into halftime level at 1-1.

At the interval, Chelle made several substitutions, introducing Amas Obasogie, Ademola Lookman, Bruno Onyemaechi, Cyriel Dessers, and debutant Tochukwu Nnadi, with Semi Ajayi replacing Awaziem. These wholesale changes disrupted Nigeria’s rhythm, and Obasogie was forced into an early save. Shortly after, in the 52nd or 53rd minute, Egypt reclaimed the lead as Mostafa Mohamed finished from close range. Nigerian appeals for offside were waved away by the referee, Mahmoud Nagi, whose overall officiating, particularly regarding the second goal and the treatment of Paul Onuachu, was later questioned as being biased due to his Egyptian nationality.

Nigeria once again grew into the game, with Lookman demanding possession and driving forward. Onuachu continued to dominate aerial duels, and the Super Eagles threatened from set pieces and long throw-ins. Despite half-chances falling to Onuachu, Dessers, and Dele-Bashiru, Egypt held firm, managing the closing stages with composure to secure a rare victory, their first since 2016.

Post-match analysis highlighted several areas of concern for the Super Eagles. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali's decision to come off his line for Egypt's opener was questioned, though he showed no signs of his recent injury scare, cementing his place as Nigeria’s number one for AFCON. Defensive frailties were evident, particularly the issues on the left flank and the general performance of the center-backs. The absence of an injured Benjamin Fredrick was keenly felt. Tactically, Eric Chelle faced