Nigeria’s penalty hero Stanley Nwabali attributes AFCON success to team effort

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Stanley Nwabali, hailed as Nigeria’s penalty shootout hero, has attributed his remarkable success in steering the Super Eagles to the AFCON final to the collective effort of his teammates.

Nwabali’s exceptional performance, which included saving two crucial spot-kicks and earning the Man of the Match award, led Nigeria to a 4-2 victory over South Africa on penalties. This triumph secured their spot in the final following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Bouake.

Despite receiving widespread acclaim for his standout performance, Nwabali remained grounded, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and unity within the Nigerian squad.

“I appreciate the collective effort displayed by the team throughout this tournament. The support from the management and coaches has been invaluable,” Nwabali stated, underscoring the collaborative spirit that propelled Nigeria forward.

Singling out head coach Jose Peseiro for special praise, Nwabali highlighted the motivational impact of Peseiro’s visit to him in South Africa before the AFCON.

READ MORE: Nigeria to face Cote d’Ivoire in 2023 AFCON final after penalty shootout victory

“The coach’s visit was a significant motivator for me. His gesture meant a lot, and I was genuinely pleased when he informed me about it,” Nwabali remarked, acknowledging the positive influence of Peseiro’s support on his morale.

Despite his individual accolades, Nwabali remains focused on the team’s success, displaying humility and dedication that have endeared him to Nigerian fans.

While his penalty heroics will be etched into Nigerian football history, Nwabali remains committed to the collective goals of the team. As Nigeria prepares for the final against either Cote d’Ivoire or DR Congo, Nwabali’s unwavering spirit and dedication serve as a source of inspiration for his teammates.

“I am grateful for the guidance and support from my teammates throughout this tournament. Their camaraderie has been instrumental in our success,” Nwabali concluded