Anxiety as Super Eagles’ goalie Nwabali set for medical tests
Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, is racing against time to be fit for Chippa United’s league clash with Orlando Pirates on Sunday, as well as Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.
The 29-year-old was stretchered off in the 35th minute during Chippa’s 1-0 defeat to Richards Bay on Tuesday, sparking fears of a serious injury.
South African journalist Austin Ditlhobolo reported that Nwabali is scheduled for medical tests this week, with the results expected to determine his availability for both club and country.
“Nwabali will be hoping to be fit for Sunday’s showdown against Orlando Pirates and the World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Bafana Bafana. He will undergo medical tests,” Ditlhobolo said.
The situation has raised major concern in Nigeria’s camp. The Super Eagles sit fourth in Group C with seven points from six matches, trailing leaders South Africa by six points. With only two games left before the final qualifying round in October, victories against Rwanda and South Africa are vital to keep their hopes alive.
Nwabali, who established himself as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, has become a key figure in the squad, earning 21 caps and producing consistent performances.
His absence would force coach Eric Chelle to turn to less experienced options such as Adebayo Adeleye, Amas Obasogie, or Ebenezer Harcourt.
Adding to the pressure, Nigeria’s September 6 qualifier will be away to long-time rivals South Africa in Johannesburg — a clash that carries extra weight given the historic rivalry between both nations.
