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In the space of a month, Stanley Nwabali has risen to become the no.1 most followed Nigerian goalkeeper on Instagram, Pulse Sports have confirmed.
Stanley Nwabali's journey from relative obscurity to becoming the hero of Nigeria's national football team at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 has captured the hearts of Nigerian football supporters worldwide.
With his stellar performances on the field, Nwabali has not only solidified his place as Nigeria's no.1 goalkeeper but has also garnered an impressive following on social media, reflecting his growing influence and popularity.
Nwabali’s Heroics on the Pitch: Stealing the Spotlight at AFCON 2023
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The 27-year-old shot-stopper, currently plying his trade for DSTV Premiership club Chippa United, has been nothing short of exceptional throughout the AFCON 2023 tournament.
However, it was his standout performance in the semifinal clash against South Africa that truly elevated his status to that of a national hero.
Forced into a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against South Africa's formidable side, Nwabali rose to the occasion, displaying nerves of steel as he denied two crucial spot-kicks.
His heroic efforts not only secured Nigeria's path to the final but also earned him widespread acclaim and admiration.
Nwabali's instrumental role in guiding the Super Eagles to victory has seen him steal the headlines as his social media followers continue to grow exponentially.
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07:59 - 08.02.2024
Stanley Nwabali: Super Eagles goalkeeper’s market value increases ten times
Since replacing Francis Uzoho in goal for Nigeria, Stanley Nwabali has made the number one spot his, with some outstanding performances
Stanley Nwabali has gained over 200,000 followers on social media since start of AFCON 2023 to become the no.1 most followed Nigerian goalkeeper on Instagram
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As mentioned Nwabali's on-field exploits have not only earned him accolades within the footballing community but have also translated into a remarkable surge in his social media following.
Prior to the commencement of AFCON 2023, the Imo State-born goalkeeper had a relatively modest presence on platforms like X and Instagram, with only a few thousand followers.
However, as his performances dazzled audiences across the continent, so did his online popularity soar.
A study conducted by Pulse Sports revealed a staggering increase in Nwabali's social media following since the start of the tournament in Ivory Coast.
On platforms like X, Nwabali’s follower count skyrocketed from a mere 5,000 to over 83,000, showcasing a remarkable tenfold growth.
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Similarly, on Instagram, Nwabali's meteoric rise continued.
When the tournament began in January 2024, Nwabali boasted less than 17,000 followers on the social media platform.
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However, after an assured display in goal against Equatorial Guinea, he crossed the 20,000 follower-mark on Meta's platform.
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00:33 - 08.02.2024
AFCON 2023: WATCH the full penalty shootout between Nigeria and South Africa, showing Stanley Nwabali's heroic saves
Watch video of the full penalty shootout between Nigeria and South Africa, where Stanley Nwanbali made heroic saves to send the Super Eagles to AFCON 2023 final.
Fast forward to Wednesday night, Nwabali has now seen that number multiply by at least 10 times surpassing even illustrious predecessors like Vincent Enyeama, Francis Uzoho, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, and Maduka Okoye.
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As of February 2024, Stanley Nwabali is the most followed Nigerian goalkeeper on Instagram, with more than 240,000 followers and counting.
In essence, Stanley Nwabali's journey from relative anonymity to becoming a national hero and social media sensation exemplifies the power of talent, perseverance, and the global reach of football.
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06:43 - 08.02.2024
Oshoala urges Ferdinand to join call for Nwabali to replace Onana at Man United after AFCON heroics
Asisat Oshoala and Man United legend Rio Ferdinand joined millions to celebrate the Super Eagles victory against South Africa.
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21:35 - 07.02.2024
AFCON 2023: Sanwo-Olu hails Super Eagles for denying South Africa final spot
Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu hails Nwabali after Super Eagles beat South Africa for AFCON 2023 final spot.
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21:15 - 07.02.2024
AFCON 2023 Stanley Nwabali: Has the Super Eagles finally found Vincent Enyeama’s replacement?
It seems Jose Peseiro has managed to solve Nigeria's goalkeeping problems by unearthing rock-solid Stanley Nwabali
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