SUPER Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, has announced the passing of his father.
Nwabali took to Instagram story on Friday to share a post announcing the passing of the father with a tearful emoji.
The Eagles had already qualified for the competition heading into Thursday’s match which was played in Ivory Coast, the 1-1 draw means they will finish the group as leaders.
The Nigeria Football Federation and Super Eagles players have also commiserated with Nwabali.
NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, expressed shock at the timing of the death, which came a day after Nigeria sealed qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
“We are shocked and saddened to hear of the demise of Stanley Nwabali’s father. Coming a day after the player featured in the match that won us the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ticket, it made for a day of low morale as we flew from Abidjan to Uyo,” Sanusi said.
He added, “The death of a parent is always a thing of deep sorrow and sadness. However, we want Stanley to take heart in the fruitful and fulfilled life that his father lived, and we pray that the Almighty will grant him eternal rest and also grant Stanley and other members of the family the fortitude to bear the big loss.”
Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong led the tributes from teammates on social media, writing on Instagram, “Love you, my brother, Nwabali. We are together.”
“Stay strong, bro,” Boniface wrote.
“Stay strong, Nwabali; we are together,” Simon added.
“My condolences, brother,” Onyemaechi wrote.
Real Sociedad forward Sadiq Umar also sent his condolences, writing, “Stay strong, Nwabali.”
