Following Nigeria’s narrow 2-1 defeat against Ivory Coast in the highly anticipated final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Stanley Nwabali, the Chippa United goalkeeper, has conveyed a heartfelt message of apology to the disappointed Super Eagles supporters.
The grand final, held at the Alassane Ouattara stadium in Ebimpe on Sunday, February 11, 2024, marked Nigeria’s first and only loss in the competition, dashing their hopes of clinching the coveted title.
The defeat left players and fans alike disheartened, prompting Stanley Nwabali to address the supporters directly.
Expressing his regret over the disappointing conclusion, Nwabali took to his Instagram account to extend a public apology to the Nigerian fans. “A disappointing and frustrating ending.
I deeply apologize to Nigerians. I was a fan, still am, and I understand how it feels to have a disappointing night. We take full responsibility for this.
Thank you for your support until the end. I love you all,” he wrote, acknowledging the collective sense of letdown.
Prior to the final, Stanley Nwabali had been a strong contender for the title of the best goalkeeper, competing against South Africa’s Ronwen Williams.
Despite his exceptional performances in the tournament, the title ultimately eluded him as the Super Eagles faced defeat in the crucial match.
The loss not only denied Nigeria the CAN 2023 trophy but also resulted in relinquishing the title of the best defense, which went to South Africa.
Ronwen Williams, with five clean sheets, outshone Nwabali, who recorded four clean sheets during the seven matches of the tournament.
The defeat against Ivory Coast had broader implications, impacting both team and individual accolades for the Super Eagles.
