Stanley Nwabali, the Super Eagles goalkeeper, recently experienced the sudden passing of his father, Nigeriasoccernet.com can report.
The tragic news reached Nwabali on Thursday night while he was in the middle of an AFCON 2025 qualifier against Benin Republic.
Despite the profound emotional impact, Nwabali continued to play through the match, later sharing on social media how difficult it was to manage his duties as a goalkeeper while grieving.
Nwabali expressed his heartbreak publicly, posting messages honoring his father and reflecting on the importance of the match. He mentioned confiding only in fellow teammate Victor Osimhen during the game and noted that while his father’s passing was a heavy blow, he was grateful the team managed a 1-1 draw, averting further disappointment.
Following the match, Nwabali shared that he would be leaving the team temporarily to handle family matters and mourn the loss of his father.
Oluwayemi Omolagba