Super Eagles Goalkeeper Nwabali Injured Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

Nigeria’s build-up to the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers has suffered a setback after first-choice goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, picked up an injury while playing for Chippa United.

The 29-year-old was stretchered off in the first half of Tuesday’s league clash against Richards Bay after going down in visible pain. The severity of the injury is yet to be determined, as Chippa United’s medical staff continue their assessment.

The development comes at a critical time for Nigeria, with Nwabali expected to play a pivotal role in next month’s qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa. The Super Eagles are already grappling with a goalkeeping crisis, following Maduka Okoye’s two-month suspension over betting violations.

This leaves limited options for coach Eric Chelle. Amas Obasogie, based in Tanzania, is yet to earn a cap for the national team, while Adebayo Adeleye of Greek side Volos NPS has made just one appearance. Teenager Ebenezer Harcourt, who caught attention at the U-20 AFCON earlier this year, is also in the squad but unlikely to be handed a starting role in such crucial fixtures.

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Nigeria currently sits fourth in its qualifying group with seven points, six behind leaders South Africa. With two tough matches ahead, Nwabali’s absence could significantly dent their chances of closing the gap.