Nwabali downplays defensive worries as Super Eagles seal last-16 spot |

Moronfolu Adeyemi

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has played down concerns over Nigeria’s defense after the team conceded two late goals in a 3–2 win against Tunisia at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Nwabali, who faced criticism after the match, said conceding goals was part of football and not a sign of a major defensive problem.

“In a tournament like this, you are bound to concede goals. Even the best teams in the world concede goals,” he told reporters.

“I don’t think there is any problem in the defense. I only feel like we need to keep going.”

The Chippa United captain added that while the team always aims to keep clean sheets, modern football makes that difficult.

“We really don’t wish to concede; we really wish to keep a clean sheet. It pains me a lot when I concede, but we keep going as a team,” he said.

“Set pieces are something you can’t correct. We scored through set pieces and they did the same.”

Nwabali also revealed he played through injury during the match, crediting the medical team for helping him continue.

“I was injured, but with the help of the team doctors and the physios, I was able to stand and continue to play,” he said, adding that criticism does not weaken his resolve.

“I’m always a strong man, so I try to just defend my country.”

Nigeria had taken control of the Group C match at the Fez Stadium with first-half goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman before Tunisia mounted a late comeback.

Montassar Talbi reduced the deficit in the 74th minute with a header from a Hannibal Mejbri free-kick, while Ali El Abdi converted a penalty in the 87th minute after a handball by Bright Osayi-Samuel.

Despite the pressure, the Super Eagles held on to secure all three points and qualify for the Round of 16 with a game to spare.

With the victory, Nigeria have secured top spot in Group C and confirmed qualification to the knockout stage regardless of the outcome of their final group match against Uganda.

The goalkeeper praised his teammates and fellow goalkeepers Francis Uzoho and Amas Obasogie for their support and unity within the squad.

“I’m really proud of these players, they try giving everything,” Nwabali said. “Winning and qualifying is a big boost for us going to the Round of 16.”

Nigeria will face Uganda in their final Group C fixture as they aim for a third consecutive win in the tournament.

[wpadcenter_ad id=’745970′ align=’none’]