- Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, trains alone but might still be available for the quarter-final clash against Angola pending a fitness test
- The 27-year-old’s commitment to recovery and optimism among team medics hint at the possibility of Nwabali’s selection
Nigeria’s newfound goalkeeping sensation, Stanley Nwabali, might remain in contention for the upcoming quarter-final clash against Palancas Negras of Angola, as he returns to training following a mild ligament injury.
The 27-year-old, now Nigeria’s number-one goalkeeper, sustained the injury during the Round of 16 battle against the Indomitable Lions on Saturday. Team medics have been diligently working on his recovery, and a late fitness test scheduled for today will determine his eligibility for the crucial match against the southern Africans.
Despite training alone, Nwabali’s commitment to his recovery is evident, and there is optimism among the team medics that he might be fit for selection if the late fitness test yields positive results.
“Fingers crossed. If all goes well, he might be available for selection,” stated the team medics, reflecting the collective hope among fans for Nwabali’s swift recovery.
The Chippa United goalkeeper has not only impressed with his assured presence between the goalposts but has also become a fan favourite for his strategic use of long kicks, unsettling the opposition during the tournament.
As anticipation builds for the quarter-final duel, Nigerians eagerly await the team medics’ decision, hopeful that Nwabali’s return to full fitness will bolster the team’s chances and continue to captivate fans with his stellar performances.
AFCON 2023: Coach Peseiro provides injury update on Nwabali
Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro has refused to rule out Stanley Nwabali from the side’s quarter-final fixture against Angola.
Nwabali sustained a knee injury in Nigeria’s thrilling 2-0 victory against the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon last Saturday.
The 27-year-old was replaced by Francis Uzoho 10 minutes from time.
The Chippa United shot stopper sat out training on Monday night at the Police College, Cocody.