Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign has suffered a setback as first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali picked up an injury while in action for Chippa United.
The 29-year-old shot-stopper was stretchered off in the first half of Tuesday’s league clash against Richards Bay, appearing to be in severe discomfort. The severity of the injury is yet to be confirmed, with Chippa United’s medical team still evaluating his condition.
The injury raises concerns ahead of next month’s crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa, where Nwabali is expected to play a central role.
With 21 caps to his name, Nwabali has been a dependable presence in coach Eric Chelle’s squad.
His injury comes at a time when Nigeria already has a goalkeeper crisis, with Maduka Okoye unavailable due to a two-month suspension for illegal betting activities.
