MNigeria’s Super Eagles will face Rwanda’s Amavubi on Monday without first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who has been excused from the squad due to a family bereavement.
Nwabali announced on his social media handle on Friday that his father, Godspower Onyekam Abali, Chief Onyeogazrim 1 of Okwuzi, had passed away at the age of 67.
The Super Eagles’ Team Administrator, Dayo Enebi Achor, confirmed that Nwabali has been granted leave from the team.
“He has been excused from the game,” Achor said. “However, the player will come to watch the match and cheer his teammates on.”
The gesture shows the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) support for the grieving player.
Persecondnews reports that Nwabali’s absence creates an opportunity for other goalkeepers to stake their claim for the number one jersey.
Italy-based Maduka Okoye and Ethiopia-based Amas Obasogie will vie for the starting spot in Monday’s encounter at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen will likely choose Okoye, given his experience and recent performances.
Okoye has been impressive for his Italian club, and his familiarity with the team will be crucial in this decisive match.
The Super Eagles have already qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, but Eguavoen will still field a strong team to maintain the momentum and ensure a winning streak.
Rwanda, despite their slim chances, will push for a victory to keep their qualification hopes.
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