Confirmed: Super Eagles goalkeeper Nwabali to watch Nigeria v Rwanda Afconq from the stands

The Nigeria Football Federation have confirmed that Stanley Nwabali will watch the Super Eagles' 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification fixture with Rwanda on Monday, November 18 from the stands.

Through his social media account, the Chippa United captain announced the death of his father on Friday morning and, as a result, has been excused from the game against Rwanda.

Nwabali has been the Super Eagles' first-choice goalkeeper since the 2023 AFCON, where he posted four clean sheets.

The 28-year-old will not feature against the Wasps, as Super Eagles interim coach Austin Eguavoen has granted him leave following the passing of his father, but he is expected to watch the game as a spectator.

This was confirmed in a statement by Super Eagles Team Administrator Dayo Enebi published on the official website of the Nigerian Federation on Friday. 

"He has been excused from the game. However, the player will come to watch the match and cheer his teammates on."

In the wake of Nwabali’s error against Benin, there have been calls for Maduka Okoye to be given a chance to prove himself again, given his outstanding form with Udinese in Serie A.

With Nwabali's absence for the clash with Rwanda, Eguavoen will have to choose between the former Watford gloveman and Amas Obasogie to be in goal.

Okoye has not played for the three-time African champions since his costly mistake led to their elimination by Tunisia in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in 2022, while Obasogie is still awaiting his debut.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

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