Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has issued an apology to Nigerian fans following the team’s loss in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In Sunday’s final against hosts Ivory Coast, the Nigerian side relinquished a one-goal lead, ultimately succumbing to a 1-2 defeat against the Elephants.
Expressing his remorse after the match, Nwabali described the outcome as a “frustrating end,” emphasizing the team’s acceptance of responsibility for the defeat. Despite this, he expressed gratitude to the nation for its unwavering support throughout the tournament.
“A disappointing and frustrating end 😞. I deeply apologise to Nigerians. I was once a fan, still a fan and I understand how it feels giving you a disappointing night,” he wrote on his Instagram handle. “We take full responsibility. Thanks for the whole support till the end. I love you all”.
Echoing similar sentiments, Nigeria’s coach Jose Peseiro acknowledged the superiority of the Ivorian team, conceding their defeat in a post-match interview.
“Ivory Coast were better than us today,” Peseiro admitted in a post-match interview. “I am sad, my team is sad, but for me they did the maximum, each one. Sometimes you want to do something but you cannot do it.”
Despite the disappointment of falling short of winning a fourth AFCON title, President Bola Tinubu commended the Super Eagles, encouraging them not to be discouraged by the defeat.
The President urged Nigerians to remain optimistic, highlighting the team’s remarkable display of resilience, determination, and unity on the field.
“Let this passing event not dispirit us, but bring us together to work harder. We are a great nation bound as one by the green-white-green banner of resilience, joy, hope, duty, and untiring love,” the president said according to his spokesman Ajuri Ngelale.