Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali says conceding goals remains a painful experience for him, despite Nigeria’s victory over Tunisia in their AFCON Group C match.
Nwabali revealed that keeping a clean sheet had been a key objective for the team, while acknowledging the increasing difficulty of modern international football.
“First game, second game, we were trying to keep a clean sheet,but football has improved a lot. It’s not something you just go in and just come out and play” he said.
“We really don’t wish to concede. It pains me a lot when I concede, but we keep going as a team.”
Nwabali. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
The goalkeeper also disclosed that he played through injury, crediting the medical staff for helping him remain on the pitch.
“I was injured, but with the help of the team doctors and the physios, I’m able to stand on the pitch to play, it’s quite tough, but I try to just represent my country” Nwabali said.
On the goal Nigeria conceded, Nwabali pointed to the condition of the playing surface, insisting that some moments are unavoidable.
“Surfaces is something you can’t correct. It happens, wee score with surfaces and they score back with surfaces” he said.
Photo Credit: AFP
Earlier in the match, Nigeria eventually took control midway through the first half. Ademola Lookman’s precise cross found Victor Osimhen, who rose highest to power a header past Tunisia’s goalkeeper, giving the Super Eagles a deserved lead.
Despite the scoreline, Nigeria’s dominance in midfield and sharpness in exploiting defensive gaps were evident throughout the opening period.
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
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The Super Eagles extended their advantage in the second half when Wilfred Ndidi climbed highest to head home Lookman’s corner, marking his first-ever goal for the national team and further asserting Nigeria’s control.
Nwabali also praised the strong bond within the goalkeeping unit, describing his teammates as family and highlighting the positive atmosphere in the squad.
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Nigeria face Uganda in their final group game, while Tunisia must beat Tanzania to keep their AFCON hopes alive.
