Stanley Nwabali emerged as the central figure in Nigeria’s dramatic victory over Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations third-place match, producing a performance that reinforced his growing status on the continental stage.
The Super Eagles goalkeeper delivered a memorable display in the penalty shootout, saving two spot-kicks as Nigeria edged past Egypt to claim the bronze medal at AFCON 2025.
His composure and authority under pressure earned him the Man of the Match award, capping a night that will long be remembered by Nigerian supporters.
Speaking after the final whistle, Nwabali was visibly emotional as he reflected on both the personal and national significance of the moment.
“To be Man of the Match in a tournament as big as this means a lot to me,” he said. “I really appreciate this special award, and I dedicate it to my nation. The people have been amazing in their support.”
Nigeria had been pushed to their limits in a tense encounter that ultimately went to penalties, placing the spotlight firmly on the goalkeeper.
Asked about his approach during the shootout, Nwabali dismissed the idea of elaborate preparation, instead highlighting responsibility and collective belief.
“I don’t really have a formula when it comes to penalties,” he explained.
“My job is simply to help my club or my country in any way I can. These boys have tried so hard and as a goalkeeper, when you really want to help your team, it gives everyone a boost. It’s a team effort.”
Despite being the clear hero of the night, the Chippa United shot-stopper struck a humble tone, insisting that his performance did not yet meet his own expectations.
The goalkeeper acknowledged the challenges he has faced over the past year, both on and off the pitch, and stressed his determination to improve.
“I won’t even talk too much about today’s performance because I feel this is not the level I’m supposed to give to my nation,” Nwabali added.
“I feel I can still give more. I just want to keep helping the team.”
He also took time to praise the Nigerian supporters, who turned out in large numbers despite difficult weather conditions, describing their presence as a vital source of motivation.
“Without the fans, there is no football. I really want to say thank you to them because it’s not easy coming out to support the team, especially with the weather.”
One of the defining moments of the shootout came when Nwabali denied Mohamed Salah, before producing another crucial save from Omar Marmoush
. Both interventions swung the momentum firmly in Nigeria’s favour and underlined the goalkeeper’s calmness against elite opposition.
Reflecting on those moments, Nwabali acknowledged their importance to his own journey.
“Salah is one of the greatest players in the world and Marmoush as well, I watch them a lot in their clubs,” he said. “Saving the penalties of players like that is a big moment for me. It was my target during the shootout, and doing it gives me a big boost.”
Nigeria’s AFCON campaign may have ended just short of the final, but Nwabali’s performance ensured the tournament concluded on a high note for the Super Eagles.
With displays of this calibre, the goalkeeper continues to establish himself as one of Nigeria’s most reliable figures on the biggest African stage.
