NFF, teammates console Nwabali on father’s death

The Nigeria Football Federation and Super Eagles players have commiserated with first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali following the death of his father on Friday morning, Saturday PUNCH reports.

The Chippa United goalkeeper announced the sad news on his Instagram page with a heartfelt tribute, writing, “Rest in peace, dad.”

NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, expressed shock at the timing of the death, which came a day after Nigeria sealed qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

“We are shocked and saddened to hear of the demise of Stanley Nwabali’s father. Coming a day after the player featured in the match that won us the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ticket, it made for a day of low morale as we flew from Abidjan to Uyo,” Sanusi said.

He added, “The death of a parent is always a thing of deep sorrow and sadness. However, we want Stanley to take heart in the fruitful and fulfilled life that his father lived, and we pray that the Almighty will grant him eternal rest and also grant Stanley and other members of the family the fortitude to bear the big loss.”

Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong led the tributes from teammates on social media, writing on Instagram, “Love you, my brother, Nwabali. We are together.”

Fellow goalkeeper Amas Obasogie wrote, “My chief, I hold you close in our thoughts at this sad time. I am deeply sorry for your profound loss.”

“Stay strong, bro,” Boniface wrote.

“Stay strong, Nwabali; we are together,” Simon added.

“My condolences, brother,” Onyemaechi wrote.

Real Sociedad forward Sadiq Umar also sent his condolences, writing, “Stay strong, Nwabali.”