Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has issued a message to the people of his country after losing the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final to Ivory Coast on Sunday.
The Chippa United star has been one of the standout players at the tournament, thanks to his four clean sheets in seven matches as well as a heroic display against South Africa, during which he saved two penalties to help his country reach the final.
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The decider, however, did not go as he would have hoped as he conceded two second-half goals to see the Elephants walk away with a 2-1 win and the trophy.
As such, the Super Eagles were denied a first AFCON title since 2013.
Nwabali has since expressed his disappointment with the defeat, issuing an apology to the Nigerian people.
"A disappointing and frustrating end." he wrote on Instagram.
"I deeply apologise to Nigerians. I was once a fan, still a fan and I understand how it feels giving you a disappointing night.
"We take full responsibility. Thanks for the whole support till the end. I love you all."
Meanwhile, his brilliant display in his debut showing at an AFCON is said to have drawn a lot of interest from potential suitors.
South African giants Kaizer Chiefs have already been linked with his signature, while his agent also recently confirmed there is interest from Europe and the Middle East too.
"There is interest in France and Saudi Arabia," Nwabali's agent Mohamed Lawal told KickOff earlier this month.
"There is no surprise because of his performance during the AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.
"I have only seen [Kaizer Chiefs links] in newspapers. I cannot comment on anything regarding local interest, please speak to the chairman of the club."
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