Stanley Nwabali: Super Eagles Goalkeeper Claims Bafana Bafana Players Were Scared to Take Penalties

• Stanley Nwabali claims Bafana players appeared fearful during penalty shootout
• The Super Eagles goalkeeper was crucial in his team's AFCON 2023 campaign
• Nigeria beat South Africa in the semi-final after the Chippa United man's heroics

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, has made a bold assertion regarding the demeanour of South African players during their recent semi-final AFCON 2023 encounter.

Following a nail-biting clash, which concluded with the Super Eagles securing victory via penalty shootouts, Nwabali shared his observations on the opposing team's state of mind.

The Chippa United shot-stopper expressed confidence in his team's triumph should the match have proceeded to penalties, asserting that the Bafana players appeared afraid during their attempts.

“People didn’t know me. Only a few teams in South Africa knew that when you go to penalty shootouts against Stanley, it’s gone. You’re finished; forget about the game. You must give me the man of the match because I will save a lot," he said, in an exclusive interview with Far Post.

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Reflecting on his performance, the 27-year-old highlighted his ability to unsettle opponents, stressing that his reputation preceded him, particularly among certain South African teams.

Acknowledging Ronwen Williams' proficiency in saving penalties, Nwabali refrained from drawing direct comparisons, maintaining his confidence in his abilities.

As reported by BeIN Sports, Williams was the star of the show when he saved four penalties against Cape Verde in the quarter-final.

Nwabali remained resolute in his belief that his presence in a penalty shootout instilled a sense of inevitability.

While commending the Mamelodi Sundowns man for his skills, he pointed out his track record in such situations, confident in his ability to secure victory.

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Despite rumours linking him to Kaizer Chiefs, recent reports suggest that the South African giants have shelved plans to sign the keeper.

Nwabali is widely expected to seek greener pastures this summer.