‘We take full responsibility’ — Nwabali apologises to Nigerians over AFCON final loss

Stanley Nwabali, Super Eagles goalkeeper, has apologised to Nigerians after the team lost to Cote d’Ivoire in the final of the just concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The Super Eagles were defeated 2-1 by the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in the final held at the Olympic Stadium, Ebimpe, Abidjan, on Sunday.

Nigeria took the lead in the match after William Troost-Ekong scored a powerful header in the first half, but Franck Kessie and Sebastien Haller scored in the second half for the Ivorians.

The loss was a disappointing end to a tournament that had revived the interest of many Nigerians in the Eagles.

In a post on his Instagram page, Nwabali described the loss as a “frustrating end”, adding that the team takes full responsibility.

The goalkeeper added that he understands “how it feels giving you a disappointing night” while appreciating Nigerians for their support of the team’s AFCON campaign.

“A disappointing and frustrating end. I deeply apologise to Nigerians,” the post reads.

“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.”

Nwabali was one of Nigeria’s best performers at the AFCON. He only conceded one goal from open play en route to the final. His heroics in the penalty shootout sent the Eagles past South Africa in the semi-final.