Super Eagles head coach Augustine Eguavoen has granted permission for Stanley Nwabali, Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper, to miss their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Rwanda.
This compassionate decision follows the passing of Nwabali's father, Chief Godspower Onyekam Abali, a respected former chief surveyor.
Team Administrator Dayo Enebi Achor confirmed the development, explaining, “Nwabali has been excused from participating in the game but will still be present at the stadium to cheer his teammates.”
Nwabali, 27, publicly announced his father's demise on social media last Friday. Chief Abali, also recognized as Chief Onyeogazrim I of Okwuzi, passed away at 67.
In the absence of Nwabali, the battle for the starting goalkeeper position in Monday’s fixture at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium is between Maduka Okoye, who represents Udinese in Italy, and Amas Obasogie, a player for Ethiopia’s Fasil Kenema SC.
Having already secured a place in AFCON 2025 with a draw against Benin, thanks to Victor Osimhen's decisive goal, the Super Eagles are preparing for their final qualifier against Rwanda. Additionally, the team is expected to engage in a friendly match during this international break, further strengthening their preparations.
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