Stanley Nwabali has successfully locked down the number one goalkeeping position for Nigeria's Super Eagles, earning high praise from a federal legislator following the team's campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco.
Lawmaker Lauds Nwabali's Stability
Akin Alabi, the lawmaker representing the Egbeda federal constituency in Oyo State, publicly commended the goalkeeper on Sunday, January 19, 2026. In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain stated that Nwabali has brought back much-needed stability and certainty to the role.
"Nwabali has brought back stability and certainty back to the goalkeeping position of the Eagles," Alabi wrote. "Forget his 'shithousery', it will be hard to take that jersey from him anytime soon."
AFCON 2025 Performance Seals His Status
Nwabali's commanding performances throughout the tournament in Morocco justified the faith placed in him. Despite entering the competition with injury concerns, he featured in all but one match for the Super Eagles, who ultimately secured the bronze medal.
Nigeria clinched third place after defeating Egypt in the third-place playoff in Casablanca on Saturday, January 17, 2026. Nwabali was instrumental in that victory, making crucial saves including denying penalty kicks from renowned stars Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
His busiest outing came in the semi-final against host nation Morocco, where he delivered an assured performance. The 29-year-old goalkeeper made several key saves, commanded his area with authority, and displayed excellent coordination with his defenders, capping it off with a penalty save during the shootout.
Transfer Speculation Intensifies Post-Tournament
As AFCON 2025 concluded on Sunday, January 18, a different kind of contest began for Nwabali off the pitch. His impressive displays have ignited a fresh wave of transfer interest from clubs looking to secure his signature.
The spotlight on the goalkeeper is particularly intense as he approaches a pivotal career juncture. His contract with South African Premier Soccer League side Chippa United is set to expire at the end of the current season, adding urgency to any potential move from the Gqeberha-based club.
Nwabali joined Chippa United from Katsina United just over three years ago. His time at the club has been marked by a stark contrast: while Chippa United struggles near the bottom of the league table, Nwabali's international career has flourished. He has earned an impressive 31 caps for Nigeria during his tenure, strengthening the argument that a move to a more competitive environment is the logical next step for his development.
His rise has seen him firmly establish himself as the Super Eagles' first-choice goalkeeper, holding off competition from the likes of Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho over the past two years.
