Following his outstanding performance against South Africa, Super Eagles goalie Stanley Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United, has reportedly received threats from the country’s football supporters.
The South African fans reportedly warned him not to return to his club after the AFCON.
Speaking on Channels Television yesterday, former Super Eagles player Idah Peterside disclosed the threats and said that certain supporters had advised Nwabali not to return to Chippa United in South Africa following the AFCON competition.
Nwabali’s role in Super Eagles reaching the finals is thought to have angered several South Africans, however the threat has not been confirmed.
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“The biggest problem we have had is that we have gotten some messages where people have sent messages to the goalkeeper threatening him. I hear some people are telling him not to come back to South Africa since you didn’t want us to score.
“We have not heard of any violence but just threats. They have been threatening him and threatening some people,” Peterside said.
Nwabali showcased his prowess during the semi-final clash against Bafana Bafana, making crucial saves during regulation time and stopping two penalties during the shootout.
Meanwhile, Chippa United have given their support to Nwabali on qualifying for the final of the AFCON.
They faced backlash for supporting Nigeria ahead of South Africa because of him. None of their players was selected by South Africa for the AFCON.
“The club wished to extend its congratulations to Stanley Nwabali for his extraordinary achievement in reaching the AFCON 2023 finals and for also earning the Man of the Match award. Our support for you remains steadfast.
“You have represented the Chippa United brand admirably and we are immensely proud of you. We will be rooting for you in the finals this Sunday against the host country, Cote d’Ivoire. We wish you all the best,” the statement said.
