National Teams
AFCON 2023: NPFL players celebrate Stanley Nwabali’s heroics vs Cote d’Ivoire
By Monsurah Olatunji
Nigeria Premier Football League players have heaped praise on Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali for his outstanding performance against Cote d’Ivoire, fter that proved home-based products are no pushover.
The former Wikki Tourist’s safest hands has started the last three matches for the Eagles, with Uzoho relegated to the bench.
And despite failing to keep a clean sheet in his opening two games, Nwabali proved his class against the Elephants with his movement, positioning, and reactions to record his first clean sheet for Nigeria.
The 27-year-old made three crucial saves to secure a clean sheet and denied the Elephants goal-scoring chances.
Standing at 1.97m, the NPFL product was drafted into the Super Eagles squad as competition for the starting spot considering the consistent errors from Francis Uzoho.
With several heated debates about the treatment of home-based players not making the provisional and final list for AFCON, players of the home leagues are happy Nwabali is proving their collective worth.
“Nwabali’s command of the box was exceptional, and he truly stood tall for the national team when he was needed the most.” Doma United goalkeeper Kingdom Osayi stated.
“Nwabali’s performance was a reflection of his dedication and hard work. He made the nation proud with that clean sheet.” Rivers United defender Endurance Ebedebiri said.
“As a fellow goalkeeper, I appreciate his style of play. It was a top-class performance from Nwabali.”Remo Stars goalkeeper Kayode Bankole said.
Doma United center-back, Nelson Abiam added, “In a game of such magnitude, Nwabali’s crucial saves and composure were game-changers. He deserves all the accolades.”
And Sporting Lagos midfielder Henry Ndedi said: “Nwabali’s saves were nothing short of spectacular. He played a very important role in securing the victory for Nigeria.”
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