'Silly id*ot' - Nigerians DRAG Super Eagles Nwabali after hard-fought Rwanda win

Super Eagles of Nigeria laboured to a narrow 1-0 victory over Rwanda in their 2026 World Cup qualifier on Saturday, September 6.

However, the three crucial points were overshadowed by fierce criticism of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. 

The Chippa United shot-stopper, who had earned widespread praise for his heroics at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, found himself under fire from Nigerians on social media after a controversial display.

A second-half goal from super sub Tolu Arokodare proved enough to spare Nigeria’s blushes at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

But Nwabali’s antics during heated exchanges with Rwandan players left many fans unimpressed. 

His rash decision-making, including an unnecessary altercation inside the box, drew the ire of supporters who felt he was lucky to avoid punishment in a match where Video Assistant Referee (VAR) was not in operation.

The criticism came thick and fast on social media platform X, where Super Eagles fans did not hold back.

One user wrote: “Is it that we don't have a keeper that can replace Nwabali. He's behaving like a thug on the pitch.”

Another angry fan posted: “Nwabali went from a GK I loved during AFCON to becoming an overconfident & silly idiot.”

One other fan commented: “Nwabali is benefiting from the fact that there’s no VAR. Should’ve been sent off for that unnecessary altercation.”

Another supporter said: “Why is Nwabali actively cultivating a reputation as a hothead? It is completely unnecessary and there is simply no upside to having such a reputation.”

A furious fan added: “Nwabali is getting too comfortable. We are not playing well and he is acting radical in a bid to get red carded. Are you mad?”

Another wrote: “Someone needs to tell Nwabali to be careful! It’s like he’s very high on something cheap! I’m not understanding atall!”

And one other advised: “Nwabali should leave his agbero behaviour and do his job for God sake. Must he display stupid behaviours every time? What exactly is his problem? He could have caused us to concede a penalty if there was VAR today with the way he punched a player after catching the ball.”

Despite the narrow win, Nigeria’s path to qualification remains tense. 

The Super Eagles currently trail behind South Africa in their group and must sharpen their performances if they are to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup. 

With tougher fixtures ahead, including a pivotal clash against Bafana Bafana, manager Eric Chelle will be under pressure to secure the Super Eagles' place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Next up for the Eagles is a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa.

The game is scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, with a kick-off time of 5:00 PM West Africa Time (WAT). 

The match will be played at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, South Africa.