Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has returned to his South African base to rejoin his teammates at Chippa United.

On New Year's Day, the Nigerian international announced that his beloved mother had passed away.

It came less than two months after he lost his father, crowning what could be described as a bittersweet year.

Nwabali started 2024 on a sensational note when he made the Super Eagles squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

He became the Nigerian national team's first-choice goalkeeper and went on to play an important role for the country at the continental showpiece.

ESPN reports that his heroics also helped Nigeria edge South Africa via penalties in the final. He pulled in saves as the Super Eagles advanced to the final before losing to hosts Ivory Coast.

Nwabali has since then been in goal for Nigeria, featuring in the AFCON and World Cup qualifiers.

While the world ushered in the New Year, Nwabali posted on social media that he had lost his mother. He wrote on X:

"A very very crazy world indeed. Rip mom, worst year of my life already."

Recall that on November 15, 2024, he announced that he just lost his beloved father.

Although the goalie did not reveal the cause of the death, he instead shared a heartfelt tribute with a message, “Rest in peace, dad”.

Nwabali returns to Chippa United

Just over two weeks after the passage of his mother, Nwabali has landed in his base in to rejoin his teammates.

The goalkeeper took to his Instagram stories to share clips showing his departure for South Africa.

He then posted photos of himself in training ahead of their crucial PSL tie against Gallants scheduled for Saturday, January 18.

We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to Stanley Nwabali and his family following the passing of his beloved mother. We kindly request that everyone respect Stanley’s privacy during this difficult time. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/sqVBeiEXyj

— Chippa United FC (@ChippaUnitedFC) January 2, 2025

NFF condoles with Nwabali

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Football Federation has sent condolence messages to the former Enyimba of Aba goalkeeper.

He was on international duty when the sad incident occurred. The NFF statement reads via X:

“Our heartfelt condolences to Stanley Nwabali on the loss of his mother.

“Stay strong, Stanley. Sending you strength and support during this difficult time. You are not alone; we are all with you.”