Super Eagles fans can breathe a sigh of relief! Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has shaken off injury concerns and is set to stand between the posts for Nigeria in their crucial AFCON 2023 quarter-final clash against Angola on Friday.
Nwabali’s participation was initially in doubt after sustaining an injury during Nigeria’s thrilling 2-0 victory over Cameroon in the Round of 16.
However, the 27-year-old Chippa United shot-stopper has diligently participated in training sessions and received medical clearance to face Pedro Goncalves’ Angolan side.
This news comes as a welcome boost for the Super Eagles, who are seeking a place in the semi-finals.
Nwabali even shared a post on his X account on Wednesday, albeit, cryptic as no mention was made of his readiness for Friday’s clash against Angola.
Thanks to everyone that checked up and showed disquiet in one way or the other at this strenuous time, I appreciate. We’re all human and anything is prone to happen. Onto the next one! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/XnXB3tfmf1
— Nwabali Stanley bobo (@NwabaliBobo) January 31, 2024
But camp sources have informed The Guardian that he will be ready for the game against Angola after taking part in training on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Nwabali has been a rock in goal throughout the tournament, conceding only once in four appearances. That solitary strike came in the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2023 opener against Equatorial Guinea, and the goalkeeper has since gone on to keep three consecutive clean sheets against Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, and Cameroon. His composure under pressure has proven crucial for Nigeria’s defensive resilience.
However, the Super Eagles will be without their captain, Ahmed Musa, who suffered a thigh injury in training this week. Wingback Bright Osayi-Samuel is also ruled out due to a knee injury. Both players have missed crucial minutes in the tournament, with Musa yet to make an appearance and Osayi-Samuel featuring twice.
Despite these setbacks, the Super Eagles remain confident. Nwabali’s recovery provides a significant morale boost, and the team will be determined to honour their absent teammates by securing victory against Angola.
The match against Angola, who finished top of Group D comprising of Algeria, Burkina Faso, and Mauritania before going on to maul Namibia 3-0 in the Round of 16, promises to be a tense affair, but with Nwabali anchoring Nigeria’s defence, the Super Eagles have a strong foundation to build upon in their quest for a fourth AFCON title.
