After the Super Eagles’ World Cup playoff loss, Stanley Nwabali apologised to Nigerians, stating that the team “gave everything for the badge” in their quest for a 2026 World Cup ticket.
In the African playoff final, Nigeria lost to DR Congo 4-3 on penalties, and after extra time, the score was at 1-1, ending Nigeria’s chances.
During the shootout, the goalie stopped two kicks, but was unable to offset misses from Semi Ajayi, Moses Simon, and Calvin Bassey.
Chancel Mbemba, the captain of DR Congo, netted the game-winning penalty kick to advance the country to the intercontinental World Cup playoffs.
After Sunday’s game, Nwabali said on Instagram that he used to be a Super Eagles fan and that he knows “how it feels giving you a disappointing night.”
The players “take full responsibility,” he continued, and the team’s “best wasn’t enough.”
