Nigeria edged out Ivory Coast 1-0 in a tense AFCON Group A clash, but Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili isn’t celebrating just yet.
While he kept a clean sheet for the second consecutive game, the young stopper admits to mixed emotions, Footballrover reports.
Highs and Lows for the Wall in Green
Expressing mixed emotions, he told Soccernet how pleased he was for the team’s victory while also acknowledging that his own performance fell short of his expectations.
He voiced a desire to get more involved, play with greater confidence, and ultimately have more fun on the pitch.
“No, I’m not happy. I feel I should be doing more for my country, so I don’t feel it was a great game for me or how my game usually is,” he said.
Nwabili, who started against both Equatorial Guinea and Ivory Coast, acknowledges the pressure of manning the net for a nation hungry for AFCON glory.
Stanley Nwabili starts in goal as Uzoho is on the bench in the Super Eagle’s first game at the #AFCON2023 #AfconBantercliVibes pic.twitter.com/NOzoZPIiAM
— Banter! (@Bantercliq) January 14, 2024
He’s eager to prove his mettle and become a true wall in green.
From NPFL to AFCON: Nwabili’s Journey
The 19-year-old’s journey to AFCON is one of perseverance. Before soaring to the PSL with Chippa United, he honed his skills in the NPFL, representing renowned clubs like:
- GO Round FC
- Wikki Tourist FC
- Enyimba Int’l FC
- Lobi Stars FC
- Katsina United FC
His experience in the Nigerian league laid the foundation for his current success, and Nwabili is determined to keep building.
Eyes on the Prize: Guinea-Bissau Awaits
With one game left in the group stage, the focus shifts to Guinea-Bissau.
The goalkeeper delivered an outstanding performance, showcasing remarkable reflexes and unwavering composure throughout d match, securing the team's victory wit crucial saves.
We finally have a solid Goalie since after Vincent.
Stanley Nwabili????#AFCON #AFCON2023 #AFCON2024 pic.twitter.com/em32TXmHNW
— badboikelv (@officialkelv_) January 18, 2024
A win secures Nigeria’s place in the knockout rounds, and Nwabili is ready to play his part.
He’s hungry for redemption and eager to show the nation his true potential.
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