Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has revealed that goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is struggling with an injury and remains a major doubt for Nigeria’s final AFCON 2025 group stage fixture against Uganda on Tuesday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Nwabali’s fitness had been a source of concern leading up to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. However, he appeared to be in good health during Nigeria’s opening match against Tanzania, where he showed no signs of physical distress.
The situation changed during Saturday’s clash against Tunisia. Nwabali committed a big error that led to Tunisia’s first goal.
Then, just minutes later, he went down on the turf requiring medical attention. Although he managed to finish the game, the signs of discomfort were evident.
Following the match, the Chippa United shot-stopper faced significant criticism from fans. In response, Nwabali admitted he has been nursing multiple injuries and had to be patched up by the Super Eagles’ medical staff.
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Speaking ahead of the final group match, Coach Chelle confirmed that the goalkeeper is dealing with an injury.
He also admitted that the technical crew is monitoring his injury closely before making a final decision on his inclusion.
“Stanley Nwabali has a little pain on his knees, we will manage. I will have my last training session. The most important thing is our state of mind for the game,” Chelle said, as observed by Soccernet.ng.
Super Eagles: Will Stanley Nwabali Play Against Uganda?
Judging by Eric Chelle’s comments, it is unlikely that Stanley Nwabali will start against Uganda in their final group stage game of the AFCON 2025.
Moreover, the game is a dead rubber for the Super Eagles who have already topped their group. So, there is a high possible that Chelle will rotate his squad.
This means that either Amas Obasogie or Francis Uzoho will get an opportunity to man the sticks. This will give Uzoho the opportunity to get some much-needed rest.
In the meantime, Nwabali has to improve on his performances soon, or he could lose his place as Nigeria’s number 1.
What Eric Chelle Said About Victor Osimhen and Frank Onyeka’s Fitness
During the game between Nigeria and Tunisia, Victor Osimhen looked like he had suffered a slight knock and was clutching his hamstring. He had to be tended to by the Super Eagles medical team.
But Chelle confirmed the the Galatasaray man is fully fit and is ready to play against Uganda. He also noted that Frank Onyeka has some pain in his ankle, but it doesn’t look like it is anything serious.