“No do that kind mistake again o” — Fan tells Stanley Nwabali at Airport as Super Eagles land in Uyo
There was mild drama at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, on Sunday morning as the Super Eagles arrived in the Akwa Ibom capital ahead of their must-win World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic.
While most of the players received cheers and applause from waiting fans, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali got a different reception. One supporter, visibly unhappy with his recent performance, shouted, “No do that kind mistake again o!” — a remark that drew laughter from a few bystanders but left the Chippa United shot-stopper looking visibly dejected as he walked quietly towards the team bus.
Nwabali, who has been Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper since the 2023 AFCON, appeared isolated and avoided eye contact with fans. Team sources told SportsRation that the Super Eagles held a closed-door meeting in camp to address grievances from some players unhappy with Nwabali’s performance against Lesotho.
The 29-year-old came under heavy criticism after his blunder in the 83rd minute of Friday’s 2–1 victory allowed Lesotho to pull a goal back, momentarily putting Nigeria’s lead in danger. The error has sparked heated debate among fans and pundits, with many calling for him to be benched for Tuesday’s clash in Uyo.
Reactions on social media have been fierce. Some fans accused the goalkeeper of being “overconfident” and “careless,” while others suggested that he needs stronger competition for his position.
Sports journalist Adepoju Samuel (@OgaNlaMedia) wrote on X, “Nwabali is sick. He needs urgent attention,” while @iSlimfit described him as “very indecisive and arrogantly overconfident.” Another fan, @Iam_agt, added, “Stanley Nwabali is getting too comfortable as the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper. He needs a competitor.”
Despite the criticism, a few supporters urged calm, reminding fans that every player makes mistakes. @TaiwoMajeks wrote, “He just needs to improve his game management. Let’s support him to bounce back.”
With Tuesday’s decisive match against Benin Republic fast approaching, the mood in camp is expected to be tense but focused. Team captain William Troost-Ekong has reportedly rallied his teammates to “move on from the Lesotho game and focus on securing qualification.”
Nigeria currently sit third in Group C with 14 points, three behind leaders Benin Republic. A win in Uyo — coupled with a favourable result in the South Africa versus Rwanda fixture — could seal the Super Eagles’ qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
