Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen has excused first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali from the Super Eagles squad for Monday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Rwanda.
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The match, set to take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, will conclude Nigeria’s qualification campaign.
Eguavoen’s Decision
The decision was announced by Team Administrator Dayo Enebi Achor, who confirmed Nwabali’s withdrawal due to the recent passing of his father.
“He has been excused from the game. However, the player will come to watch the match and cheer his teammates on,” Achor told thenff.com.
A Time of Mourning
Nwabali broke the news of his father’s death on social media last Friday, revealing that his father, Godspower Onyekam Abali, Chief Onyeogazrim 1 of Okwuzi, had passed away at the age of 67.
The elder Abali, a respected figure in his community and a former chief surveyor, was deeply admired by his son and those around him.
Goalkeeper Selection Without Nwabali
With Nwabali unavailable, the competition for the starting goalkeeper role against Rwanda narrows to Italy-based Maduka Okoye and Ethiopia-based Amas Obasogie. Both keepers will be looking to impress in what is otherwise a dead-rubber game, as the Super Eagles have already secured qualification for AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
Nwabali’s Presence to Inspire
Despite his grief, Nwabali will be present at the stadium to support his teammates. His decision to cheer from the sidelines reflects his commitment to the team, even during a personal loss.
The Super Eagles will undoubtedly play with Nwabali in their thoughts, hoping to close out their qualifying campaign with a strong performance.
Looking Ahead
The final match against Rwanda provides an opportunity for Coach Eguavoen to assess his squad depth and test potential combinations ahead of the tournament in Morocco. With Nwabali’s absence, the contest for the number one jersey becomes a chance for Okoye and Obasogie to prove their worth.
As the team rallies together, the spirit of unity and resilience in the face of personal adversity serves as a reminder of the human side of football.
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