By Amaechi Agbo
Ahead of the 2027 Afrcia Cup Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in October, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has stated that Chippa United goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali will not remain the team’s first choice goalie
Nwabali had been absent from club action after leaving South African side Chippa United in February in search of a new challenge.
During that period, Chelle handed Okoye the starting role, with the Udinese goalkeeper featuring prominently in the Super Eagles’ major international friendly matches.
The goalkeeper recently rejoined Chippa United and impressed during a pre-season friendly tournament, prompting speculation that he could reclaim the number one jersey ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming fixtures.
However, according to report, Chelle has no immediate plans to change his goalkeeping hierarchy.
The coach is keen to maintain healthy competition within the squad while rewarding strong performances, meaning Okoye is expected to remain the team’s first-choice goalkeeper.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in September, Okoye is set to start as the team’s preferred option between the posts.
Nevertheless, his place is far from guaranteed in the long term, with Nwabali and Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo both expected to challenge strongly for the starting role as Chelle evaluates his options
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