AFCON: “Don’t come to South Africa” – South Africans reportedly threaten Nwabali
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United in South Africa, has reportedly received threats from South African fans following his standout performance against the country.

Stanley Nwabali, the formidable Super Eagles goalkeeper, allegedly faces menacing threats from South Africans, warning him against resuming with his club in the country.
Nwabali’s breathtaking display in the fiercely contested semi-finals against South Africa catapulted him into the spotlight. However, instead of basking in the glory of his stellar performance, rumors have surfaced of him being targeted by South African fans with threats. The speculation suggests that he has been warned against returning to South Africa after the conclusion of the AFCON, a report that has caused a stir among Nigerian fans and raised concerns about the safety of players in the region.
The incident underscores the volatile nature of football rivalries, especially in the context of international competitions like the AFCON. While on the pitch, players are expected to compete fiercely for their respective nations; off the pitch, they should be able to return to their club duties without fear of reprisal or intimidation. However, the alleged threats against Nwabali paint a troubling picture of the tensions that can arise between players and fans, particularly in the aftermath of highly charged matches.
Stanley Nwabali, a seasoned professional with a stellar track record, deserves to be celebrated for his outstanding contributions to the sport. As a goalkeeper, he plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of his team, and his talent and dedication should be recognized and respected by fans, regardless of their allegiance. The reported threats against him not only cast a shadow over his achievements but also raise questions about the need for greater measures to protect players from harassment and abuse.
Idah Peterside, a former Super Eagles star, unveiled this revelation during an exclusive interview on Channels Television aired on Thursday, February 8, 2024
WATCH HIM SPEAK BELOW
This follows Bafana Bafana’s defeat to Nigeria in a nail-biting penalty shootout during their semi-final showdown at the ongoing 2023 African Cup of Nations.
Nwabali plays for South African Premier Soccer League club Chippa United as their first-choice goalkeeper, and prior to the Africa Cup of Nations, he had played 15 top-tier matches for his club.
Following Nigeria’s advancement to the final of the 2023 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, Nwabali, having played a pivotal role, recently conveyed his fondness for South Africa.
In a heartfelt statement posted on his Instagram account, he expressed his love for the country, affirming that his affection is reciprocated by its passionate fans.
He underscored his unwavering passion for the game and dedication to the team, reaffirming his admiration for South Africa despite the fiercely competitive environment.
He wrote, “This is a game I’m born to play. A night to remember!!! I felt every bit of it!! Brick by brick and dreams are coming true. No love lost at all. I still love South Africa as much as their fans loves me. My name is Nwabali Stanley Bobo and I love this team with all my heart. Safe hands”
The reported threats against Stanley Nwabali serve as a wake-up call for the football community to address the challenges of fan behavior and player safety. It is imperative that we work together to create a supportive and inclusive environment where players can thrive without fear of intimidation or harm. By standing united against violence and discrimination, we can ensure that football remains a source of joy, inspiration, and unity for generations to come.