Stanley Nwabali a Major Doubt as Super Eagles Suffer Goalkeeping Blow Before AFCON
Nigeria’s plans for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have been hit hard, as first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is now unlikely to make the tournament because of injury.
This is a big setback for the Super Eagles, who are already struggling with several injured players and changes in defence. Nwabali, who became a fan favourite after his excellent performances at the last AFCON, has not played since Nigeria’s penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in the World Cup qualifying playoffs. He is dealing with both ankle and hand injuries.
His club coach at Chippa United has raised serious concerns about his fitness. He explained that Nwabali still has an ankle problem and may need surgery on his injured hand, which he continued playing with until it got worse. Although Nwabali himself is hopeful of recovering in time, his coach believes the chances are very slim.
At 29, Nwabali has become Nigeria’s most dependable goalkeeper, with 27 caps and a calm presence that has brought stability to the team. Losing him would be a major blow, especially with the Super Eagles already facing defensive issues.
Nigeria included Nwabali in their provisional squad, but head coach Eric Chelle has not yet named his final list for the tournament. With Nigeria set to play their first Group C match against Tanzania in just a few days, time is running out.
The team will also face Tunisia and Uganda in a demanding group where strong defensive organisation is essential—something the team is lacking at the moment.
Chelle’s problems do not end with Nwabali. Several other players are unavailable or doubtful. Benjamin Fredrick and Felix Agu are ruled out, while Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi may also miss the tournament. Captain William Troost-Ekong has retired, leaving a huge gap in leadership and experience at the back.
If Nwabali cannot recover, Chelle has five other goalkeepers to choose from: Amas Obasogie, Maduka Okoye, Adebayo Adeleye, Francis Uzoho, and youngster Ebenezer Harcourt. Okoye and Uzoho have played in major tournaments before but have struggled for form, while Obasogie, Adeleye, and Harcourt lack big-tournament experience.
With the tournament fast approaching, the Super Eagles now face the tough task of rebuilding their defence and replacing their trusted No. 1 goalkeeper.
