Stanley Nwabali Responds to Critics After Super Eagles Call-Up

Stanley Nwabali, the Super Eagles goalkeeper, has responded to his critics following his return to the Nigeria national team for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. On September 24, 2026, he posted a video on Instagram showcasing his penalty saves against Egypt during the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, where Nigeria secured a bronze medal.

Nwabali saved penalties from Egyptian stars Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, bolstering his reputation as a penalty specialist. His post included the message, “I’m back, it’s time to keep crying,” aimed at those who criticized his absence from the team after a challenging period at Chippa United, where he left in February 2026.

His inactivity led to head coach Éric Chelle favoring other goalkeepers, including Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo. Nwabali's return coincides with Nigeria's qualifiers, where he aims to reclaim his position as the first-choice goalkeeper.