Nigerian football fans have expressed outrage over Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s costly error in the team’s 2-1 victory against Lesotho on Friday in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Nwabali, who has been Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper since the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, came under fire after fumbling a corner kick that allowed Hlompho Kalake to score for Lesotho in the 83rd minute. The blunder briefly threatened to undo Nigeria’s lead before late goals from William Troost-Ekong and Akor Adams sealed the win.

The Chippa United shot-stopper also had a nervy moment in stoppage time after a mix-up with defender Semi Ajayi, further fuelling criticism of his performance.

On social media, fans accused Nwabali of complacency and overconfidence. Sports journalist Adepoju Samuel (@OgaNlaMedia) wrote that “Nwabali is sick. He needs urgent attention,” while another user, @iSlimfit, said the goalkeeper was “very indecisive and arrogantly over-confident.”

Analyst Biola Solace-Chukwu (@Beeorlicious) quipped that Nwabali was “trying to give the whole of Nigeria high blood pressure,” as others called for him to be benched or replaced. Some urged the return of Maduka Okoye, while others advised Nwabali to improve his game management.

Despite the backlash, Nigeria’s victory keeps their World Cup hopes alive. The Super Eagles now sit third in Group C with 14 points, three behind Benin Republic.

The team will host Benin Republic on Tuesday in Uyo, where they must win and hope for a favourable result in the South Africa versus Rwanda match to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.