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AFCON 2023: Jose Peseiro gives update on Stanley Nwabali’s availability status

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AFCON 2023: Jose Peseiro gives update on Stanley Nwabali’s availability status

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Head coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s national team, Jose Peseiro has given an update on the fitness status of goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali.

Despite a 2-0 win thanks to Ademola Lookman’s brace, Nwabali was stretched off against Cameroon in the Round of 16 clash at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a collision course with an opposing player inside the box.

Ahead of Friday’s quarter final clash with Angola, the Portuguese coach is now relying on a final test to determine whether the goalie will be available for the game.

“We will take the final decision [on Stanley Nwabali] today after the last test,” Peseiro told journalists ahead of the game in Abidjan on Thursday.

“If he can not play then Francis Uzoho will play. For me, I have confidence in them and Ojo Olorunleke.”

Both teams will meet for the first time in a competitive mach after the Palancas Negras qualified for 2006 FIFA World Cup ahead of the Super Eagles on head to head rule.

“Both teams want to get to the semi final. It will be a tough match.” He continued. “With good organisation and spirit, we should be able to beat a big with not too big name in Africa football, Angola.

“Angola are not a big name in African football but are doing well. They showed capacity. They want to win of course but don’t want more win than us. Both teams want to win this match and get to the semi-final.

“Our team wants to be consistent. So far we have played four games, and won three. We want to keep this capacity and quality to create opportunities and score.

“At the same time create good work and defensively okay with organisation to score.” He concluded.

The winner of the game will face Cape Verde or South Africa in the semi final of the competition.