Nigerians have taken to social media to express outrage at Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali following his costly error in the team’s 2–1 win over Lesotho on Friday.
Nwabali who had been enjoying a strong run as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, came under intense scrutiny after fumbling a corner that allowed Hlompho Kalake to score for Lesotho in the 83rd minute.
His nervy performance was further highlighted in stoppage time when a miscommunication with defender Semi Ajayi almost led to an equaliser.
Many fans described his display as careless and overconfident, demanding that he be benched or even replaced in the national team.
Sports journalist Adepoju Samuel (@OgaNlaMedia) said the goalkeeper’s performance was worrying, writing that “Nwabali is sick. He needs urgent attention.”
Another user, @iSlimfit, faulted the goalkeeper’s decision-making and composure, stating that “Nwabali is very indecisive and arrogantly over-confident.”
The criticism spilled beyond X (formerly Twitter) to Instagram and Facebook, where users continued to vent. @aviation_energyltd called for the return of Maduka Okoye, saying,
“That guy plays too much with his head like potato ruined our hope,” while @okanlawon_231 demanded that “Someone needs to talk sense to Nwabali head, he’s overdoing things.”
READ ALSO: Super Eagles Defeat Lesotho 2-1 as World Cup Qualifiers Heat Up
Despite the backlash, the Super Eagles managed to grab a crucial victory, with goals from William Troost-Ekong and Akor Adams ensuring Nigeria remain in contention for a World Cup spot.
Lesotho’s late goal, however, has clearly shaken the confidence of fans, many of whom are now calling for changes ahead of Tuesday’s decisive clash against the Benin Republic in Uyo.
Nigeria currently sit third in Group C with 14 points, three behind leaders Benin Republic.
Victory in their final qualifier, combined with a favourable result in the South Africa versus Rwanda fixture, could seal the Eagles’ place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.