Nwabali Returns From Injury But Chippa United Fall to Orlando Pirates

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, made his much-anticipated return to action for Chippa United on Sunday but endured a tough evening as his side slumped to a 3-0 defeat against Orlando Pirates at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

The Nigerian international had raised concerns earlier in the week after being stretchered off during Chippa’s 1-0 loss to Richards Bay on Monday. Fears of a long-term injury were quickly dispelled as he returned to the starting lineup against Pirates.

Unfortunately, it was not the comeback he would have hoped for, as Chippa United’s defensive frailties left him exposed, conceding three goals that condemned the club to remain bottom of the South African top-flight table with just one point from five matches.

Despite the setback, Nwabali is expected to travel to Nigeria ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa — games that could define the Super Eagles’ path to the tournament.

Opinion:
While Chippa United’s struggles continue, Nwabali’s quick recovery is a huge relief for Nigerian fans. His presence between the sticks has become a source of reassurance for the Super Eagles, especially after his heroics at the 2023 AFCON.

Club form may not always reflect a player’s international performance, and for Nwabali, the World Cup qualifiers provide the perfect stage to once again prove his class. If anything, his resilience to bounce back swiftly from an injury scare shows the mental toughness and commitment every national team needs at crucial moments.

Yes, Chippa United might be battling at the bottom, but for Nigeria, the bigger picture is clear: a fit and determined Nwabali could be the difference between qualification struggles and a confident march towards the 2026 World Cup.