Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali earned the praises of Nigerians again at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast after helping Nigeria reach the final of the tournament on Wednesday, for the first time since 2013.
Nwabali saved two penalties during the shootout on a long night at the Stade de la Paix in Bouke, as Nigeria beat South Africa 4-2 on penalties to power their hopes of winning a fourth AFCON title after successes in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
Although he was beaten from the spot by Teboho Mokoena during regulation time, the 27-year-old put up a commanding performance with spectacular saves during the game, which earned him the Man of The Match award as well.
Captain William Troost-Ekong also gave Nigeria the lead from the spot in the 67th minute after Victor Osimhen was fouled in the South African box by Mothobi Mvala.
