&w=1200&resize=1200,0&ssl=1 "AFCON 2023: Iwobi clears the air on the incident with Nwabali during win over Angola")
An on-field altercation between Alex Iwobi and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali sparked widespread debate among fans and pundits alike after Nigeria’s narrow 1-0 victory over Angola in their Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal showdown.
Despite the heated moment caught on camera, with Nwabali visibly berating Iwobi after a near miss by Angola’s Zini, the Everton midfielder has come out to clear the air, insisting there’s no bad blood between him and the Chippa United shot-stopper.
Iwobi Clears the Air
Responding to the incident with maturity and grace, Iwobi has played down the altercation, emphasizing the team spirit and Nwabali’s resilience.
South Africa’s head coach Hugo Broos has openly expressed his concerns over the formidable challenge posed by the Super Eagles ahead of their eagerly anticipated semi-final bout.
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Super Eagles dynamo Frank Onyeka teases epic showdown between Nigeria and South Africa in AFCON 2023 semifinal.
“He’s a soldier, the fact that he was able to withstand that injury and fight for us today shows how much he loves us and wants to fight for the country.
“I am happy, great team performance and we are through to the semifinals so we are one step closer to our dream,” Iwobi told Allnigeriasoccer
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Super Eagles star Alex Iwobi || Imago
A Testament of Maturity and Focus
This incident brings to light Iwobi’s evolution as a player, especially considering his cautious approach at this year’s tournament following a red card in the 2021 edition against Tunisia.
“I have no issues. If that’s how it looks, then that’s how it looks; I’m just playing my game,” he remarked, showcasing his commitment to contributing positively on the pitch.
Having featured in Nigeria’s last sixteen matches at the Africa Cup of Nations, starting eleven of them, Iwobi’s experience and demeanour are invaluable to the Super Eagles’ aspirations for glory.
