Super Eagles of Nigeria Goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali is mourning the loss of his mother, just months after announcing the death of his father.
Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United in South Africa, shared the heartbreaking news on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday evening. “RIP mom,” he wrote, describing the year as the “worst year of my life already.”
Earlier, the 28-year-old had posted a cryptic message saying, “A very very crazy world indeed.” Details surrounding his mother’s passing were not disclosed.
Nwabali’s father, Chief Godspower Onyekam Abali, also known as Chief Onyeogazrim 1 of Okwuzi, passed away just over a month ago at the age of 67. His death occurred a few hours before Nigeria’s match against Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in November.
Following the loss of his father, Nwabali was excused from participating in the game. However, he attended to support his teammates. “He has been excused from the game. However, the player will come to watch the match and cheer his teammates on,” Super Eagles’ Team Administrator Dayo Enebi Achor told thenff.com.
The South Africa-based goalkeeper gained prominence last year after an impressive performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Nwabali featured in all matches, helping the Super Eagles reach the final, where they narrowly lost to hosts Côte d’Ivoire.
Nwabali’s double tragedy has drawn widespread sympathy from fans and the football community.
