Chippa United and Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who broke Bafana Bafana’s hearts in the Africa Cup of Nations semifinals on Wednesday, has sent a message of sympathy to South Africa and their fans.
Two saves from Bobo Nwabali helped Nigeria beat South Africa 4-2 on penalties and reach the final of Afcon. They will now meet Ivory Coast or DR Congo in the final.
Nwabali in his appreciation post said “This is a game I’m born to play. A night to remember!!! I felt every bit of it!! Brick by brick and dreams are coming true,” said Nwabali.
“No love lost at all. I still love South Africa as much as their fans love me. My name is Nwabali Stanley Bobo and I love this (Nigeria) team.”
“I don’t love any (other) club, I only know about Chippa United, I don’t want to focus on club matters right now.”
Kelechi Iheanacho converted the winning penalty as Nigeria held their nerve for a 4-2 shootout win over South Africa to reach the AFCON final. William Troost-Ekong’s spot-kick in normal time had looked like sending the Super Eagles through without further stress, particularly when Victor Osimhen turned the ball home with five minutes remaining.
That goal though was chalked off, and South Africa awarded a penalty of their own for a foul in the build-up. Teboho Mokoena converted to force extra time, and penalties followed.
Nigeria Super Eagles will be up against host, Ivory on Sunday for the title.
