Nigeria's goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali loses mother on New Year's Day

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has announced the passing of his mother on the evening of Wednesday, January 1, 2025.

This heartbreaking event comes just weeks after the Chippa United goalkeeper lost his father a few hours after representing the Super Eagles in their 1-1 draw against Benin Republic in November 2024.

In a post shared on his social media account on X, the South Africa-based goalkeeper tweeted:

“RIP Mom. Worst year of my life already. A very, very crazy world indeed.”

Rip mom, worst year of my life already 😢💔

— Nwabali Stanley bobo (M.O.N) (@NwabaliBobo) January 1, 2025

The Nigeria Football Federation extended its condolences to Nwabali, expressing their support and solidarity.

“Our heartfelt condolences to Stanley Nwabali on the loss of his mother. Stay strong, Stanley. Sending you strength and support during this difficult time. You are not alone; we are all with you.”

For Nwabali, this loss will be a huge shock, especially as his tweet on X a day prior suggested he was optimistic about the year ahead.

2024 was a good year, we’re doubling everything in 2025. Thank you @ChippaUnitedFC 🌶, thank you @ng_supereagles 🦅 🇳🇬, thanks to all my fans. Let’s do more!! #nwabali #safehands #happynewyear pic.twitter.com/beYJqRMEnC

— Nwabali Stanley bobo (M.O.N) (@NwabaliBobo) December 31, 2024

Since making his debut for Nigeria, Nwabali has earned 13 caps and was part of the Super Eagles squad that claimed silver at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, narrowly losing the final 2-1 to eventual winners Ivory Coast.

FKA/MA