Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is enjoying a breakout season and further solidifying his growing reputation with another clean sheet. He helped Chippa United defeat Supersport United by two unanswered goals in a DSTV Premiership away game on Saturday.
At the Lucas Moripe Stadium, Nwabali stood firm and made three fantastic saves to keep the Supersport attackers at bay, securing the crucial three points for his team and earn a third straight cleansheet.
Nwabali was at his best early on, making two important saves to keep the scores level. He was then booked in the 29th minute for protesting a decision.
Minutes later, the tide turned for Chippa. Craig Martin found Sinoxolo Kwayiba in the 33rd minute, who slotted the ball home to put the visitors in the lead.
Chippa took their advantage into half-time. Supersport came out fighting in the second half, but Nwabali remained a rock in goal, making more crucial saves.
In the 80th minute, Chippa doubled their lead through Eva Nga, assisted by Sirgio Kammies. Despite Supersport's valiant efforts, Chippa saw out the game to claim all three points.
As it stands, the Chilli Boys are eighth on the PSL table, eight points behind second-placed Orlando Pirates, who currently occupy one of the CAF Champions League spots. There are six games left to play for Chippa United.
Nwabali's impressive season continues
This was a stellar performance for the Super Eagles goalkeeper. He made an impressive eight saves in the game and kept a clean sheet – his 10th of the season from 21 DSTV Premiership games and third in as many games.
Another Nigerian, Etiosa Ighodaro, featured for Supersport United, coming on as a 67th-minute substitute for Terrence Dzvukamanja.
Rising profile and transfer rumors
Since taking over the number 1 spot in the Super Eagles, Nwabali has continued to shine for both club and country. He has firmly established himself as Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper, mirroring his success at the club level.
Nwabali has been the subject of numerous transfer rumors, with clubs from Belgium, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia reportedly interested in his signature.
In South Africa, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns are also reportedly eyeing a move for the 27-year-old as his stock continues to rise.
Chippa United chairman Siviwe Mpengesi has revealed that the club will not stand in Nwabali's way if they receive a good offer.
Mpengesi told iDiskiTimes: “We are talking to a few clubs abroad. We also believe he needs something better, especially after the performance he showed at the AFCON.
“You know, being number 2, they were runners-up, he was number 2, second-best goalkeeper of AFCON. So, if the opportunity comes especially abroad, of course even if it comes locally and the offer is for him, it's not even for us.
“If the offer for him is better then we are not going to hold on to him.” he added
Nwabali's impressive form makes him a valuable asset for both club and country. It remains to be seen if he will stay with Chippa United or move on to a bigger challenge in the coming transfer window.
