Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, accomplished a remarkable feat on Wednesday by establishing a new national record for the longest duration without conceding a goal at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Nwabali surpassed the previous record held by Super Eagles legend Ike Shorunmu, who went 450 minutes without conceding a goal in six AFCON matches over two tournaments.
By the 47th-minute mark against South Africa, Nwabali broke the 22-year-old record, remaining unbeaten for an impressive 493 minutes across six games until he was eventually scored against from the penalty spot by Teboho Mokoena. The Chippa United goalkeeper’s exceptional performance also earned him the official Man of the Match accolade, highlighted by a crucial save in second-half stoppage time during the match against Bafana Bafana.
Nwabali’s goalkeeping prowess has not only set a new benchmark among Nigerian goalkeepers but has also played a crucial role in Super Eagles’ journey to the Africa Cup of Nations final. With Nigeria set to face hosts Ivory Coast in the final at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan on Sunday, February 11, Nwabali’s impressive clean sheet record adds an extra layer of significance to the team’s achievements in the tournament.