Nigeria’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has taken to Instagram to apologise to Nigerians after the Super Eagles lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast in the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Sunday.
Nwabali, who was the hero of the semi-final against South Africa, where he saved two penalties in a shootout, could not repeat his heroics in the final, as he conceded two goals from Sebastien Haller and Franck Kessie.
Nigeria had taken the lead in the 18th minute through a header from William Troost-Ekong, but Ivory Coast equalised in the 63rd minute and scored the winner in the 87th minute, sparking wild celebrations among the hosts and their fans at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara in Abidjan.
Nwabali posted a picture of himself looking dejected on the pitch, with the caption:
“A disappointing and frustrating end . I deeply apologise to Nigerians. I was once a fan, still a fan and I understand how it feels giving you a disappointing night. We take full responsibility. Thanks for the whole support till the end. I love you all ”
