Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has apologised to Nigerians following the team’s heartbreaking exit from the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, saying the players “gave everything for the badge” in their bid to secure a spot at the tournament.
Nigeria fell 4–3 to DR Congo in a tense penalty shootout on Sunday after the playoff final in Rabat ended 1–1 across 120 minutes, dashing the nation’s hopes of returning to the World Cup stage.
Nwabali, who had a standout performance throughout the qualifiers, saved two penalties during the shootout. But his heroics were not enough to salvage the missed kicks by Calvin Bassey, Moses Simon and Semi Ajayi.
The decisive moment came when DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba calmly converted the final spot-kick, sealing their place in the intercontinental playoffs and leaving the Super Eagles stunned.
Reacting in an emotional Instagram post, Nwabali said he understood the frustration felt by millions of fans, recalling his own years as a supporter before becoming the national team’s first-choice goalkeeper.
“As a fan of this great nation Nigeria before being a player, I understand how it feels giving you a disappointing night,” he wrote.
He acknowledged that the players were devastated by the result, saying: “Our best wasn’t enough. We take full responsibility.”
Nwabali also thanked supporters who stood by the team despite the intense pressure, promising that the squad would reflect and come back stronger in future competitions.
The defeat means Nigeria will miss the World Cup for the second consecutive edition, after previously failing to qualify for Qatar 2022.
