Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has played down concerns about reclaiming Nigeria’s number one shirt. Instead, the 31 year old says his priority remains helping Chippa United enjoy a successful 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign, Trybal News reports.
Nwabali returned to the Eastern Cape club last month after leaving in February. He then spent about six months without competitive football before making his Chippa United comeback.
The goalkeeper made an immediate impact on his return. He kept a clean sheet in Chippa United’s opening league match, made six saves and earned the Man of The Match award. He also featured in the club’s second league outing.
“I feel positive coming back to the club, not just for me but also for the team. The relationship and the agreement is all good. I just want the team to succeed this season,” Nwabali told SABC Sport.
“Coming back to this club feels like I’m coming back to my family and my home, and I’m really happy to be back on the pitch, doing what I love.”
His return has also raised questions about his place in the Super Eagles squad. Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo shared goalkeeping duties for Nigeria during Nwabali’s absence.
However, Nwabali insists he is not currently thinking about taking back the national team shirt.
“I’m not really worried about that one; I’m only focused on helping my club pick up as many points as possible. So for now, I’m not too worried about the national team,” he said.
That focus comes after a difficult outing for Chippa United. Orlando Pirates defeated them 3-0 at Kings Park Stadium, moving top of the Betway Premiership after three games on superior goal difference.
Stanley Nwabali Super Eagles pedigree remains strong
Despite his current focus on club football, Nwabali remains one of Nigeria’s most recognised goalkeepers. He became a national hero during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
Nwabali saved two penalties against South Africa in the semi final shootout. His heroics helped Nigeria reach the final and cemented his place among the tournament’s standout players.
He also produced another memorable display at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. Nwabali won the Man of The Match award against Egypt after saving penalties from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
Those performances helped Nigeria secure a bronze medal and further strengthened Nwabali’s reputation at international level.
The Super Eagles will return to action in September. Nigeria will host Madagascar in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, with the match likely to provide an early indication of head coach Eric Chelle’s goalkeeping preference.
For now, though, Nwabali remains focused on Chippa United. After returning to competitive football, the goalkeeper wants to rebuild his rhythm, help his club collect points and enjoy his latest chapter in South Africa.
