Super Eagles suffer blow as Goalkeeper Nwabali picks up injury ahead of World Cup Qualifiers

Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign has been dealt a major setback after first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali picked up an injury while in action for his South African club, 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. Chippa United’s medical team has begun assessments to determine the extent of the injury.

The development comes at a crucial time for Nigeria, with decisive qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa just days away.

It also adds to the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping woes, as Maduka Okoye remains out on a two-month suspension over illegal betting violations.

With Nwabali sidelined, the coaching crew may have to turn to less experienced options. Among those available are Amas Obasogie, who plays in Tanzania but has never featured for the senior national team, and Adebayo Adeleye of Greek side Volos NPS, who has only one cap to his name.

The Super Eagles will now anxiously await updates on Nwabali’s condition as they brace for the must-win qualifiers.