The Super Eagles star was a relative unknown before AFCON, but his performances in the tournament have made him a fan favorite.
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali returned to Ogba Egbema Ndoniimo village in Imo State over the weekend to a heroic welcome from residents, Soccernet.ng reported.
Nwabari has experienced an incredible rise in the past two months. The Chippa United star was a relative unknown ahead of the 2023 African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. However, he was invited to join Nigeria’s first team and took the top spot at AFCON.
The 27-year-old star performed well throughout the tournament with four clean sheets, including two saves in the penalty shootout against South Africa.
Unfortunately, he could not help the Super Eagles win the trophy as they lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast in the final.
However, the Super Eagles received a warm welcome from the Nigerian government after their appearance at AFCON. They were awarded the title “Members of the Order of the Niger (MON)” and were given houses and lands.
New development: Nwabari returned to his hometown last weekend and received a hero’s welcome. The Chippa United star was also awarded the title of Chieftain.
Stanley Nwabali gets a hero’s welcome in his village after his exploits at the AFCON. pic.twitter.com/R5Vr2FcnKX
– Mann, Alabama (@KelvinOma_) 19. February 2024
Nwabali returns to the village 🔥🇳🇬pic.twitter.com/QfLxlAko0S
— Pooja!!! (@PoojaMedia) 18. February 2024
