Stanley Nwabali Says Sorry to Nigerians After Super Eagles’ World Cup Exit
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has tendered an apology to Nigerians following the team’s painful exit from the 2026 World Cup playoff on Sunday.
Nigeria fell 4–3 to DR Congo in a penalty shootout after both sides played out a 1–1 draw over 120 minutes in the African playoff decider. Although Nwabali managed to stop two spot kicks, misses by Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon, and Semi Ajayi proved costly.
DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba sealed the result with the decisive penalty, sending his side into the intercontinental playoff and ending Nigeria’s hopes of returning to the World Cup.
In a post shared on Instagram, Nwabali expressed regret over the outcome, noting that he understands the disappointment fans feel because he was once in their shoes. He said the players “gave everything for the badge” but admitted that their “best wasn’t enough” on the night.
He added that the squad takes full responsibility for the setback as the team now looks ahead to rebuilding.
