Third-Place Playoff: Moses Simon Named Captain as Nigeria Face Egypt

Third-Place Playoff: Moses Simon Named Captain as Nigeria Face Egypt

By Niyi Busari 

Super Eagles winger Moses Simon was handed the captain’s armband as Nigeria took on Egypt in the Third Place playoff match on Saturday, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Simon, who serves as the team’s assistant captain, led the side after head coach Eric Chelle opted to rest regular captain Wilfred Ndidi and star forward Victor Osimhen, both of whom started the match on the bench.

Chelle made several changes to his usual starting lineup, leaving out key players including Ademola Lookman, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, and Osimhen, as he rotated the squad to assess the depth and readiness of other players.

Defender Calvin Bassey was also absent from the matchday squad, but his omission was due to suspension following the accumulation of two yellow cards — the first received in the Round of 16 against Mozambique and the second in the semifinal clash with Morocco.

Nigeria and Egypt squared off at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, with both teams aiming to secure third place in the tournament.

The winner of the encounter will finish as the tournament’s third-best team and claim the bronze medal.