Nigerian Football Fans Call for Calm as Super Eagles Prepare for Crucial World Cup Qualifier
Nigerian football fans have been urging Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to “calm down” as the team arrived in Uyo ahead of their pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic. The incident occurred when Nwabali, a key player for Chippa United, was seen arriving at the Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Fans could be heard repeatedly calling on him to “calm down,” as captured in a video posted by Ademola Victor TV.
In the footage, Nwabali walked through the terminal with team officials and luggage, while supporters attempted to cheer him on but also expressed concern over his recent performances. This moment came after a challenging period for the Super Eagles, who had to make an unscheduled emergency landing in Luanda, Angola, due to a cracked windscreen on their chartered aircraft from South Africa. Despite the setback, the team eventually reached Uyo safely, albeit later than planned.
Nwabali, who gained recognition as one of Nigeria’s standout players during the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, has faced criticism following a series of unconvincing displays in the World Cup qualifying campaign. His struggles were first highlighted in the 1–0 win against Rwanda in Uyo last month, where he received a yellow card after a reckless challenge on an opponent. The situation worsened further during Nigeria’s 2–1 victory over Lesotho, where Nwabali fumbled a cross that allowed Hlompho Kalake to score for the hosts in the 83rd minute. Moments later, a miscommunication with defender Semi Ajayi almost led to an equalizer for Lesotho, leaving fans frustrated by what many perceived as overconfidence and lack of focus.
As calls for his replacement grew louder, the airport scene sparked mixed reactions among supporters. Some showed sympathy and urged patience, while others insisted that Nwabali should be dropped for Tuesday’s crucial match. Prominent Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck defended the goalkeeper, describing him as “an amazing goalie” and “the best since Enyeama.” He added, “Who no dey make mistake? With him, I am confident. Make una go sleep.”
User Onah Kosisochukwu also called for empathy, suggesting that Nwabali’s recent errors might be due to anxiety rather than incompetence. “Two errors, possibly from anxiety, do not define the work Nwabali has done for Nigeria as a goalkeeper. Show me a goalkeeper without some moments of doubt,” she wrote. “Keep your head up, Nwabali.”
Another user, Dr Kelechi Anyikude, condemned the abuse directed at the goalkeeper, calling it “distasteful and appalling.” He added, “Heads up, Nwabali. I know you will learn from the uncharacteristic mistakes. We are with you.”
However, not all opinions were supportive. Commentator Bloke claimed, “Nwabali is currently the weapon fashioned against Nigeria,” while Damilola Omo-Odedina argued, “It’s time we moved on from Nwabali. He almost caused that second goal towards the end.”
There were also concerns about Nwabali’s temperament following the tragic loss of both his parents earlier this year. Rhyda Antetokounmpo reminded others that grief might have affected his concentration, writing, “If Van Dijk and Liverpool can blame form on Diogo Jota’s demise, who is Nwabali not to be affected? He needs love and encouragement. We know his abilities.”
Some fans believe that Nwabali’s attitude, rather than his goalkeeping, is the main issue. Dr George, a football analyst, stated that the problem “isn’t the goalkeeping mistakes” but “the attitude that follows despite the gaffes,” which he described as “I can do and undo, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”
Supporters have also called for coach Eric Chelle to consider alternative options in goal, including second-choice keeper Adebayo Adeleye. “It’s time to give Adebayo Adeleye a chance,” wrote TheBoluSport. “Enough of this overconfidence from Stanley Nwabali. You can’t be toying with people’s hearts with poor performances.”
Sports journalist Quality Quadri described Adeleye as “a perfect replacement” who has “the pedigree and character to take over from Nwabali.” However, not everyone agreed. Fellow journalist Faith Oluchi argued that comparing both players was unfair, writing, “Even Adeleye knows he can’t lace Nwabali’s boots. Amas Obasogie is better than this, Adeleye. We don’t want a calamity as Super Eagles goalkeeper.”
Calls have also resurfaced for the reintroduction of Maduka Okoye to the national team once his ban ends. One user, WIZZ POLL, insisted that Nwabali “feels indispensable” and “needs serious competition to thrive,” suggesting that Okoye’s return could bring balance to the goalkeeping department.
Despite the divided opinions, many fans still recognize Nwabali’s importance to the Super Eagles’ World Cup ambitions. The team currently sits third in Group C with 14 points, three behind leaders Benin Republic. A win in Uyo, coupled with a favorable result between South Africa and Rwanda, could see Nigeria secure their place at the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
As the Super Eagles prepare for their final qualifier, Nwabali’s composure may prove as critical as any save he makes.