Tensions rise as Bafana Bafana fans accused of intimidating Nwabali before World Cup qualifier

According to a member of the Super Eagles media team, Ayo Olu Ibidapo via his YouTube channel, tensions are rising ahead of Tuesday's blockbuster 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier between Nigeria and South Africa following reports that Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has faced intimidation from a section of Bafana Bafana supporters.

Nwabali, who is the captain of South African Premiership club Chippa United, is set to return to familiar territory for the crucial clash in Bloemfontein. 

Ibidapo has indicated that some South African fans have allegedly threatened the 29-year-old, urging him not to feature against their national team.

The source of the animosity is linked to Nigeria's semifinal victory against South Africa at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. 

Nwabali emerged as one of the standout performers in that encounter, saving two penalties during the shootout to send the Super Eagles into the final. 

Some South African supporters have yet to move on from the loss, seemingly channeling their anger towards the goalkeeper.

The Super Eagles camp has condemned the reported threats, stressing that football should remain a unifying force rather than a source of hostility. 

While emotions are expected to run high as both nations battle for qualification, many believe that personal intimidation undermines the spirit of fair play. 

South Africa are aiming to return to the World Cup for the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010, while Nigeria are seeking a seventh appearance on the global stage after missing out in 2022. 

The match promises to be fiercely contested, but concerns remain over Nwabali’s safety in the build-up.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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