Afcon 2023: Peter Rufai and Joseph Yobo celebrate heroic Stanley Nwabali

By Monsurah Olatunji

Former Nigeria goalkeeper Peter Rufai and captain, Joseph Yobo, has hailed Stanley Nwabali following his match-winning display against South Africa in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.

Nigeria beat South Africa 4-2 on penalties after full and extra time, finishing in a 1-1 draw to get to the final in Abidjan.

The Super Eagles had goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to thank after the Chippa United shot-stopper saved two penalties, denying Mokoena and Evidence Makgopa during the shootout to guide Nigeria to victory.

“I can’t figure out words to explain how I feel. Very tough nervy game,” he said in a video posted by Afrosport.

“Super Eagles have always shown character despite South Africa playing their best game of the tournament.

“It’s been a very long time I feel this way. He (Nwabali) saved two penalties and we are in the final.”

Legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai also sang the praises of the goalkeeper acknowledging it is his time to shine.

“It is your time to shine. Nigeria is proud of you,” he said in a video posted by Afrosport.

“He took his moment and shine. The South Africans thought because he played in their league he couldn’t do well but he proved himself.”