DURBAN, March 3 (AGCNewsNet) – Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been named Man of the Match after a commanding performance for Chippa United in their goalless draw against Richards Bay in the South African Premier Soccer League.

Nwabali’s impressive display at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium saw him pull off a series of crucial saves, ensuring Chippa United secured a vital away point. His return to top form comes just in time for Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Despite Richards Bay dominating the match with seven shots and eight corners, Nwabali proved unbeatable, making key saves from Justice Figuareido, Moses Mthembu, Keegan Allan, and Ntlonelo Bomelo. The highlight of his performance came in the 17th minute when Figuareido unleashed a curling right-footed shot from outside the box. Nwabali responded with a stunning save, pushing the ball away from the top corner. His heroics secured Chippa United’s second clean sheet of the season and earned him the best player award for the match.

Nwabali’s resurgence is a significant boost for Nigeria, with head coach Finidi George preparing to name his squad for November’s crucial World Cup qualifiers. The 28-year-old, who was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, had recently struggled with form following the tragic loss of both his parents. However, his latest performance signals a strong comeback as he aims to cement his place as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper.

With Udinese’s Maduka Okoye recovering from hand surgery and Francis Uzoho lacking game time at Omonia Nicosia, Nwabali’s form could be decisive for the Super Eagles.

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Greg Etafia has backed Nwabali to continue his resurgence, revealing that he has been in regular contact with the Chippa United star. “I tell him that there are some things he needs to let go of and try to focus on because football is his life,” Etafia told Sports247. “He’s one of the best goalkeepers in the country, and I hope that before the qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe—a must-win for Nigeria—he’ll be in the right state of mind to do Nigeria proud.”

With two crucial qualifiers ahead, Nwabali’s return to form could be key as the Super Eagles aim to kick off their World Cup qualifying campaign on a strong note.

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