AFCON 2023: A 1-0 win against Cote d’Ivoire not enough, I owe my country to try more in next matches, says Super Eagles goalkeeper, Nwabali
By ABIRHIRE THOMAS…reporting from Abidjan
Super Eagles and Chippa United goalkeeper, Christian Nwabili was left unsatisfied with his performance in Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Ivory Coast at the Stade Olympique Ouattara.
William Troost-Ekong’s well-drilled shot from the spot kick made all the difference as Jose Peseiro’s men held on for all three points against Jean-Louis Gasset’s Ivory Coast.
Nwabali, 27, was drafted into the Super Eagles squad after the coach, Jose Peseiro, went to watch him in action for his club side before the former Lobi Stars goalkeeper was included in his eventual 25-man list.
There were questions over who would take over the number one spot as the Nigerian team headed to Ivory Coast, considering the consistent errors from Francis Uzoho.
The Portuguese coach opted to start Nwabali in goal in the opening Group game against Equatorial Guinea, and although largely untested, showed good signs with his calmness, ability on the ball and how he commanded his back-line.
The 1.97m tall goalkeeper made three crucial saves to secure a clean sheet and deny the hosts a chance to equalize as Nigeria got all three points in the hugely anticipated clash, but the goalkeeper was not happy with his performance.
The Super Eagles goalkeeper, while speaking with The DEFENDER in Cote d’Ivoire after the match with the host country on Friday, specifically thanked Prince Vincent Okumagba, Super Eagles Supporters Club (SESC) President for the non-stop singing and drumming behind him.
“No, I’m not happy. I feel I should be doing more for my country, so I don’t feel it was a great game for me, or how my game usually is. I’m happy for the team’s win, but my performance is unlike me. I want to play the ball more, be more confident, and enjoy myself,” the 27-year-old told The DEFENDER.
Nigeria will play their final group game against Guinea-Bissau next week Monday as they look to seal qualification from Group A.
