Chippa United and Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali may be given a rest from the goalpost on Monday when the Super Eagles of Nigeria face off against Rwanda in their final AFCON qualifiers Group D match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
The Chippa United shot-stopper had taken to his X handle to announce the demise of his father shortly after the draw with Benin Republic on Thursday.
Stanley Nwabali
Reports reaching The Athletic.ng confirm that the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper may be given a one-match rest to mourn his father by Coach Austin Eguavoen, and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye will likely replace him.
READ MORE: Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali announces father’s death after draw with Benin Republic
Maduka’s return to goalkeeping responsibilities will mark his first appearance for Nigeria since the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, ending a two-year hiatus.
Meanwhile, Ola Aina has returned to England from Ivory Coast after the Benin Republic match and will not participate in the Rwanda game. Aina’s absence, coupled with Nwabali’s bereavement, presents Coach Augustine Eguavoen with selection challenges.
The coach must now reassess his strategy and make adjustments to ensure the team’s defensive cohesion.
Okoye’s return provides an opportunity for him to reclaim his spot in the team. His experience and skill will be invaluable in ensuring the Super Eagles’ defensive solidity remains intact.
With Nigeria already qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, this match serves as a chance for Okoye to regain momentum and prove himself.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen faces a selection dilemma due to the absence of Nwabali and Aina. However, the Super Eagles’ depth should mitigate their absence.
The coach will need to reassess his strategy and make adjustments to ensure the team’s defensive cohesion. This may involve tweaking the team’s formation or assigning new roles to existing players. Monday’s match against Rwanda holds significance despite Nigeria’s qualification.
The Super Eagles seek to maintain momentum and consolidate their position atop Group D. Rwanda, eager to spoil Nigeria’s party, will present a formidable challenge. The match promises to be an exciting encounter.
The Super Eagles have demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the qualifiers. With Okoye’s return and the team’s collective strength, Nigeria is well-equipped to overcome Rwanda. The team’s defensive solidity and attacking prowess make them favorites to win.
Despite key player absences, the team’s depth and talent should ensure a convincing victory against Rwanda. With Okoye’s return, Nigeria is poised to end the qualifying campaign on a high note.
Nigeria’s focus now shifts to the main tournament, where they will seek to make a lasting impact. With Okoye’s return and the team’s collective strength, the Super Eagles are poised for success.