Super Eagles shot-stopper Stanley Nwabali has expressed unwavering belief that Nigeria has the quality, experience, and determination to reclaim African football’s biggest prize at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The tournament — scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026 — will see Nigeria chase a fourth continental title, more than a decade after their last triumph under the late Stephen Keshi in 2013.
Speaking in an interview with SuperSport TV, Nwabali said the team’s recent run to the final in Ivory Coast has instilled a renewed sense of confidence within the squad.
“AFCON is one of the most competitive tournaments in world football, not just in Africa,” the Chippa United goalkeeper said. “As a big football nation, we’re never just there to take part — we go to win. We reached the final last time, and this time, I believe we can bring the trophy home.”
Nwabali became a household name after his standout performances at the 2023 AFCON, where Nigeria narrowly lost 2–1 to hosts Ivory Coast in a pulsating final. His calm presence and penalty heroics during the knockout stages made him a fan favourite across the country.
However, his recent displays for club and country have drawn mixed reviews. The 28-year-old has faced criticism for a few costly errors and perceived time-wasting during Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, leading to unnecessary yellow cards.
Despite that scrutiny, the confident goalkeeper insists he remains focused on the bigger picture.
“Every player goes through ups and downs, but what matters is how you respond. My focus is on helping the team qualify for the World Cup and then going all the way at AFCON,” Nwabali said.
Before the continental showpiece, Nigeria must navigate the African playoffs for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to unveil his squad for those crucial fixtures in the coming weeks. Nwabali is likely to compete for the number-one spot with Maduka Okoye of Udinese, who is returning to the national team after a long absence.
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With a new wave of competition, belief, and experience in the Super Eagles’ camp, fans will be hoping Nwabali’s confidence proves prophetic when the team lands in Morocco later next year.
