Soccer
Stanley Nwabali, for Nigeria during AFCON. Copyright: Imago/shengolpixsx
Former Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has broken his silence on Maduka Okoye’s emergence as the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper in his absence, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nwabali has been sidelined from the national team setup since the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in January. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s third-place finish, capped by a standout performance against Egypt in the bronze medal match.
Following the tournament, Nwabali parted ways with Chippa United via mutual consent. His departure came after four years at the club and followed months of intense transfer speculation, which led many to believe a move to a new club was imminent. However, the goalkeeper has remained a free agent, despite persistent links to clubs in South Africa and Tanzania.
His extended period of inactivity has cost him his place in the Super Eagles squad, as he has not been called up since the conclusion of the AFCON. In his stead, Maduka Okoye has seized the number one jersey, delivering two impressive displays against Portugal and Poland.
Soccer Stanley Nwabali: How Ex-Chippa United Star is Taking Okoye Being Super Eagles’ Number 1
During the match between Nigeria and Portugal, Nwabali hosted a social media live session, where he interacted with fans while watching the action. When asked about his absence from the national team, he offered a diplomatic response: “It’s not everybody that will keep. A lot of players need to play also.”
As it stands, Nwabali’s next destination remains uncertain. However, with the summer transfer window now open and clubs across Africa looking to bolster their goalkeeping ranks, the former Enyimba shot-stopper will be eager to secure a new deal and revitalize his career.
But for the Super Eagles, it is difficult to see him reclaim the number one shirt for Nigeria. Okoye has been brilliant and self-assured in his last few appearances for Nigeria.
Against Portugal last night, he pulled off some world class saves to keep Nigeria in the game. Perhaps, if not for his brilliance between the sticks, Nigeria could have suffered a real drubbing. Consequently, coach Eric Chelle will likely stick to him for the foreseeable future.
Kelvin Omachonu
Kelvin Omachonu is a professional football columnist and sports writer with over half a decade of experience covering major events and delivering captivating, analytically-driven stories.
A graduate of the University of Ibadan, he is fueled by a profound dedication to sports journalism and the beautiful game. His insights have previously been featured in respected outlets, including IndyPress UI, UCJ UI Newshive NG, Sportpremi, and a few others.
Away from work, Kelvin is an avid fan of basketball, enjoys a great movie, and is always discovering new music.
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