After his father passed away on Friday morning, Stanley Nwabali, the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalie, received condolences from the Nigeria Football Federation and his teammates.
With a heartfelt tribute, the Chippa United goalie posted on his Instagram page to share the terrible news: “Rest in peace, dad.”
The incident occurred one day after Nigeria qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, and NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi expressed dismay at the timing.
“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.”
Fellow goalkeeper Amas Obasogie wrote, “My chief, I hold you close in our thoughts at this sad time. I am deeply sorry for your profound loss.”
“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.”