Nigeria's Nwabali Ready for Crucial Angola Clash Despite Injury Scare at AFCON 2023
Super Eagles fans can now rejoice! Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has overcome injury concerns and is poised to guard Nigeria's goal in their crucial AFCON 2023 quarter-final clash against Angola on Friday.
Initially doubtful for participation due to an injury sustained in Nigeria's 2-0 victory over Cameroon in the Round of 16, the 27-year-old Chippa United shot-stopper has actively engaged in training and obtained medical clearance to confront Pedro Goncalves' Angolan team.
This development provides a significant uplift for the Super Eagles as they aim to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
On Wednesday, Nwabali posted on his X account, though the message remained cryptic, offering no explicit confirmation of his preparedness for Friday's encounter against Angola.
Camp insiders at The Guardian have revealed that Nwabali, after participating in training on Tuesday and Wednesday, is set to be fit for the upcoming game against Angola.
Throughout the tournament, Nwabali has been an outstanding presence in goal, allowing just one goal in four matches. His impressive performances include three consecutive clean sheets against Cote d'Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, and Cameroon, showcasing his coolness under pressure and contributing significantly to Nigeria's defensive strength.
However, the Super Eagles will face the absence of their captain, Ahmed Musa, sidelined due to a thigh injury, and wingback Bright Osayi-Samuel, who is ruled out with a knee injury. Both players have faced injury challenges in the tournament, impacting their contributions on the field.
Despite facing these challenges, the Super Eagles are resolute. Nwabali's swift recovery serves as a considerable morale lift, and the team is committed to honoring their absent comrades by clinching victory against Angola.
The upcoming clash with Angola, who emerged as the leaders of Group D, defeating Algeria, Burkina Faso, and Mauritania, and later securing a 3-0 win over Namibia in the Round of 16, is anticipated to be intense. However, with Nwabali steadfastly securing Nigeria's defense, the Super Eagles possess a robust foundation as they pursue their quest for a fourth AFCON title.
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