Nwabali savors clean sheet as Chippa secures cup victory
Super Eagles' top choice goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, expresses delight after preserving a clean sheet in Chippa United's 2-0 victory against TS Galaxy FC in a cup match at the Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, on Sunday.
Goals from Bienvenu Eva Nga and Roscoe Pietersen secured the win for the visitors, propelling them to the next stage of the Nedbank Cup.
Although not featured in their recent PSL 2-0 home triumph over Kaizer Chiefs on April 6 at the Buffalo City Stadium, East London, the 27-year-old goalkeeper, clearly not sidelined due to performance issues, shared his joy in an Instagram post on Monday.
"This is my office!! Another clean sheet secured, with back-to-back Nedbank Cup match victories reflecting a stellar team performance. Onward to the next round! Chilli boys," Nwabali declared on Instagram.
The ex-Enyimba goalkeeper maintained a clean sheet in his recent appearance for the Chilli Boys, securing a 2-0 victory over the Cape Town Spurs at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), on April 3.
Consistent with his pattern since his international debut, Nwabali expressed his enthusiasm on social media platforms the next day, saying, "Persistence, learning from setbacks, and grace have been key. Another significant team win and a clean sheet in the books. Chilli boys."
Up next for Nwabali and his teammates in the Premier Soccer League is an anticipated clash against SuperSport United at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium in Pretoria on April 20th.
Nwabali finds himself back in his Chippa United element after facing backlash from some South African fans for thwarting Bafana Bafana's progress to the 2023 AFCON final by saving two crucial penalties in the semi-final match of the continental tournament in Ivory Coast last February.
His journey in international football reflects dedication, perseverance, and patience, akin to the proverbial tale of the dog having its day.
Despite spending three years in the Nigeria Premier Football League with clubs like Go Round FC, Wikki Tourists, Enyimba, Lobi Stars, and Katsina United, Nwabali remained relatively unknown until being discovered by former Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro ahead of the 2023 AFCON.
Nwabali swiftly rose to prominence at the continental football spectacle, showcasing consistent top-notch performances in goal that contributed to the team's silver medal finish, ultimately ending Nigeria's prolonged quest for a dependable goalkeeper.
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