Alex Iwobi finally reveals what Egypt keeper told him before AFCON penalty
Fresh drama has emerged from Nigeria’s dramatic AFCON third-place playoff win over Egypt, as Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has finally revealed the bold words Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy told him moments before his penalty kick.
Nigeria and Egypt clashed in the third-place match on Saturday, January 17, after the Super Eagles crashed out to hosts Morocco, while Egypt were edged out by Senegal in the semi-finals.
After 90 minutes of tense, goalless football, the match was settled by penalties, with Nigeria winning 4–2, thanks to calm finishes from the spot and Ademola Lookman sealing the victory.
However, it was a viral video from the penalty shootout that stirred conversations online, showing El-Shenawy appearing to taunt Iwobi before his kick.
Now, Iwobi has shed light on what actually happened.
In a behind-the-scenes video of the Super Eagles reflecting on the match, Lookman asked him directly:
“What did the keeper say to you bro?”
Iwobi replied with a laugh:
“He said to me, Iwobi, I know where you’re going to play it. If I save your penalty, you’ll give me your shirt.. I said no problem🤣”
Iwobi went on to convert his penalty, putting Nigeria firmly on course for victory before Lookman fired home the decisive kick.
The bronze medal finish ensured Nigeria ended their AFCON campaign on a high note, easing the pain of the semi-final loss and restoring belief ahead of future international fixtures.
