TheCable

Stanley Nwabali, Super Eagles goalkeeper, says he hopes to continue putting smiles on the faces of Nigerians with his performance with the country’s men’s national football team.

On Wednesday, Nwabali was the hero as Nigeria defeated the Bafana Bafana 4-2 on penalties to qualify for the final of AFCON.

The goalkeeper saved two penalties in the shootout after the game had ended one-all through the regular period and extra time.

The Chippa United goalie was voted the man of the match in acknowledgement of his performance.

Speaking after the match, Nwabali said he “did not expect this thing to come my way now”, adding that he just wanted to make “millions of Nigerians” feel good.

He then thanked Chippa United, his club, and the coaching staff of the Super Eagles for their guidance.

“I did not fully understand how I was feeling. When I look around, I see millions of Nigerians, and I only want to make them happy. I just want to make them feel good,” the 27-year-old said.

“I did not even expect this coming. I did not expect this thing to come my way now, but I give God all the glory. I want to say a very big thank you to everyone. My club, Chippa United, and my coaches are here to guide me. We no go gree for anybody. I wish everybody well, and I really want to do more for Nigeria.”

Nwabali has been enjoying a terrific AFCON. He kept four clean sheets in six games.

The Super Eagles will play Ivory Coast in the final on Sunday.