Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign has been hit with a major setback after first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was stretchered off injured while playing for his South African club, Chippa United.
Stanley Nwabali, 29, went down clutching his leg during Tuesday’s league clash against Richards Bay and had to be taken off in the first half.
While Chippa’s medical team is still running assessments, the sight of Nwabali in visible pain has left both club and country concerned.
The timing could not be worse for the Super Eagles. Nwabali has become a dependable figure for Nigeria, making 21 appearances and providing much-needed stability between the posts. With crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa scheduled for September, his absence could be a huge blow.
To compound the crisis, Nigeria is already short on options. Maduka Okoye, once seen as the long-term successor in goal, is serving a two-month suspension for illegal betting activities. That leaves coach Eric Chelle with only untested or inexperienced alternatives.
Amas Obasogie, currently playing in Tanzania, has never worn the national colours at the senior level. Adebayo Adeleye, who features for Greek side Volos NPS, has just a single Super Eagles appearance to his name.
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