AFCON 2025: Uzoho Backs Nwabali as Super Eagles Goalkeeper Battle Continues

Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho has shown a strong sense of professionalism and unity, pledging his full support for Stanley Nwabali if the Chippa United shot-stopper is once again preferred ahead of him at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Uzoho, who was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper for several years, lost his starting role after a series of high-profile errors, with Nwabali emerging as the new number one. The Omonia Nicosia keeper last featured for the Super Eagles during the 2023 AFCON Round of 16 clash against Cameroon, coming on in the final minutes after Nwabali sustained an injury.

Speaking to Elegbete TV Sports ahead of Nigeria’s AFCON opener against Tanzania on Tuesday, Uzoho made it clear that personal ambitions come second to the team’s success.

“This is my fourth AFCON, it’s a thing of joy for me,” Uzoho said. “I thank God for giving me the strength to always be fit whenever the time comes. In every position on the team, we have two or three great players. Competition has to be there. When he was chosen, I gave him my support, and if he’s chosen again, it’s the same.”

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Uzoho’s comments go beyond goalkeeping rivalry — they reflect a healthy dressing-room culture, something often overlooked but crucial in winning major tournaments. AFCON campaigns are rarely about just the starting XI; they are won by squads that remain united, focused, and supportive regardless of selection decisions.

With Nwabali’s confidence and recent performances earning him the nod, Uzoho’s maturity in embracing competition sends a positive message to the entire squad. For Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle, this kind of attitude is invaluable, especially in high-pressure moments where trust and harmony can be the difference between success and disappointment.

As Nigeria begins their AFCON 2025 journey, the goalkeeping department appears settled not just by form, but by mutual respect — and that could quietly strengthen the Super Eagles’ push for continental glory.