Nwabali reacts to Nigeria’s defeat to DR Congo
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In an Instagram post on Sunday, Nwabali said he understood the pain Nigerians felt because he had once been just another fan of the team before becoming the nation’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has broken his silence following Nigeria’s painful World Cup playoff loss to DR Congo, apologising to fans and admitting that the team’s “best wasn’t enough” on the night.
Nigeria crashed out after a dramatic 4–3 penalty shootout defeat in the African playoff final, with the match ending 1–1 after extra time. Despite Nwabali saving two penalties, the Super Eagles could not recover from misses by Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, and Semi Ajayi.
DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba converted the decisive kick, sealing Congo’s passage to the intercontinental playoffs and ending Nigeria’s hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup.
In an Instagram post on Sunday, Nwabali said he understood the pain Nigerians felt because he had once been just another fan of the team before becoming the nation’s first-choice goalkeeper.
“I know how it feels giving you a disappointing night,” he wrote, adding that the players “gave everything for the badge” and “take full responsibility” for the outcome.
The defeat has sparked fresh debate about the team’s future, but Nwabali’s message marks the first public reaction from a key player after the heartbreaking loss.
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