Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, has expressed deep disappointment following Nigeria’s painful exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoffs.

Nigeria fell 4-3 to the Democratic Republic of Congo in a tense penalty shootout after both sides played out a 1-1 draw across 120 minutes of exhausting football. The defeat means the Super Eagles will miss the World Cup for the second consecutive time, a major blow to fans and players alike.

Taking to Instagram, Nwabali admitted the defeat was difficult to accept.

“Painful! We all did our best for the badge though our best wasn’t enough. I was once a fan and understand how it feels giving you a disappointing night. We take full responsibility,”
— Stanley Nwabali

Nwabali, who emerged as one of Nigeria’s standout performers during the qualifiers, emphasized that the team understands the disappointment felt by millions of Nigerians.

Despite the loss, many fans have praised Nwabali for his consistency and leadership throughout the campaign.