The Nigerian national football team has been hit with a major setback as first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali battles fitness concerns ahead of Sunday's crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff final against DR Congo.
Injury Crisis Looms for Super Eagles
Nwabali sustained the injury during the closing stages of Nigeria's dramatic 4-1 extra-time victory over Gabon in the semifinal match. Despite the physical discomfort, the Chippa United shot-stopper displayed remarkable determination by completing the full match, even as substitute goalkeeper Maduka Okoye warmed up on the sidelines ready to replace him.
The risk taken by Nwabali highlights his commitment to the Super Eagles' World Cup aspirations, but medical reports suggest this bravery may have come at a significant cost to the team's chances in the final.
Training Session Raises Alarm Bells
Concerns about Nwabali's availability intensified during Friday's training session when the 28-year-old goalkeeper could only participate in partial drills. Meanwhile, his counterparts Maduka Okoye and Amas Obasogie completed full training sessions without any visible limitations.
This development has fueled speculation among team officials and fans that the Super Eagles might be forced to field their second-choice goalkeeper in one of the most important matches in Nigeria's recent football history.
The timing couldn't be worse for Nwabali, who had begun to rediscover his form during the Gabon match after facing heavy criticism from supporters for recent performances. The goalkeeper was involved in an error that led to a goal against Lesotho and received criticism for being overly aggressive during the qualifier against Rwanda.
Chelle Faces Goalkeeping Dilemma
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle finds himself in a difficult position as he awaits full medical clearance before finalizing his starting lineup for Sunday's high-stakes encounter. The match, scheduled to take place in Rabat, Morocco, represents the final hurdle for Nigeria before the intercontinental playoffs.
Nwabali's potential absence would thrust Maduka Okoye into the spotlight, placing immense responsibility on the Udinese goalkeeper to deliver in what could define Nigeria's World Cup qualification hopes.
The challenge becomes even more daunting considering DR Congo's impressive form, having eliminated continental giants Cameroon in their semifinal match. The Leopards present a formidable opponent that will test Nigeria's defensive resilience regardless of who starts in goal.
Compounding Nigeria's worries, stand-in captain Wilfred Ndidi has been suspended for the final after receiving his second yellow card of the playoffs during the Gabon match. The Besiktas midfielder received his first booking against Rwanda and picked up the crucial second caution early in Thursday's semifinal.
As preparations continue amid this uncertainty, the Super Eagles remain focused on their ultimate objective: securing a spot in the intercontinental playoffs and keeping alive Nigeria's dream of participating in the 2026 World Cup.
