Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali produced a night to remember, saving two penalties as Nigeria edged past Egypt in a dramatic shootout to win the third place.
The Chippa United shot-stopper was deservedly named Man of the Match, capping a performance that underlined his growing reputation as one of Africa’s most reliable goalkeepers.
Speaking after the final whistle, an emotional Stanley Nwabali dedicated the award to the nation and praised the fans for their unwavering support.
“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.”
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When asked about his mindset during the nerve-wracking penalty shootout, Stanley Nwabali revealed there was no secret science behind his saves, only responsibility and 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 his heroics, the goalkeeper insisted he is not yet satisfied with his own standards, especially after a challenging year personally and professionally.
“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 reserved special praise for the supporters who turned out despite tough conditions.
“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 was Nwabali’s save from Egyptian star Mohamed Salah, followed by another crucial stop from Omar Marmoush.
The Nigerian goalkeeper admitted he viewed the moment as a personal milestone.
“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.”
With performances like this, Stanley Nwabali continues to cement his place as one of Nigeria’s most dependable match-winners on the biggest stage.
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