Injury Scare: Stanley Nwabali Doubtful for Nigeria’s World Cup Qualifiers

Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers have been dealt a potential setback as Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is a major doubt for the upcoming games against Rwanda and South Africa.

The 29-year-old was stretchered off in the 35th minute during Chippa United’s PSL clash with Richards Bay on Tuesday night, raising concerns over his availability.

Nwabali, who was recently named in Nigeria’s 31-man provisional squad, has been a steady presence between the sticks since his breakthrough performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where his saves were instrumental in the Super Eagles’ run to the final.

With Nwabali sidelined, Nigeria may have to rely on Adebayo Adeleye, Amas Obasogie, or Ebenezer Harcourt, the other goalkeepers listed in the provisional squad. The Super Eagles are set to face Rwanda on September 6 before a high-profile showdown against South Africa on September 10.

Opinion: A Test of Nigeria’s Goalkeeping Depth

If Nwabali fails to recover in time, it will be a big blow for the Super Eagles. He has not only provided confidence and leadership at the back but also given fans hope that Nigeria finally has a dependable No. 1 after years of uncertainty in that position.

That said, this situation could be a blessing in disguise. It offers a chance for other keepers like Adeleye and Obasogie to step up and prove themselves on the international stage. After all, no team aspiring to qualify for the World Cup should be reliant on just one player.

Coach Finidi George now faces a tough decision: rush Nwabali back to fitness or trust the next man up? Either way, Nigeria must stay sharp—the road to the 2026 World Cup will not forgive lapses in preparation.

⚽ Do you want me to also draft a "Possible Starting XI without Nwabali" to show how Nigeria might line up if he misses the matches?