Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, has issued an apology to fans after Nigeria’s 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final at Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.
Although William Troost-Ekong’s header secured an early lead, Franck Kessie’s equalizer and Sebastien Haller’s late goal sealed the Ivorians’ victory.
Nwabali, making his AFCON debut in Ivory Coast, conceded four goals and achieved four clean sheets in his initial six games. Expressing regret on Instagram, he said, “A disappointing and frustrating end. I deeply apologize to Nigerians.”
Despite the defeat, he thanked Eagles fans for their unwavering support throughout the tournament, acknowledging their disappointment and expressing love for them.
Despite being three-time AFCON champions, Nigeria has now faced defeat in five finals, occurring in 1984, 1988, 1990, 2000, and 2023.
