Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has made a confident return to Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, accompanying his recall with a playful message aimed at his critics.
The Chippa United goalkeeper took to Instagram on Tuesday to share a video highlighting his penalty saves against Egypt stars Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush during Nigeria’s third-place play-off victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nwabali captioned the video: “I’m back, it’s time to keep crying 😂.”
The 29-year-old was instrumental in Nigeria’s 4-2 penalty shootout victory over Egypt, saving attempts from Salah and Marmoush to help the Super Eagles secure the bronze medal. He was subsequently named Man of the Match.
His return comes after a difficult period in his international career. Following his departure from Chippa United in February 2026 in search of a new club, Nwabali struggled to secure a move and was subsequently left out of Nigeria’s squads due to a lack of regular competitive football.
During his absence, Maduka Okoye featured for the Super Eagles, while Arthur Okonkwo emerged as another option after FIFA approved his switch of international allegiance.
Okonkwo further strengthened his case during the 2026 Unity Cup, keeping clean sheets against Zimbabwe and Jamaica.
Nwabali’s fortunes changed in July when Chippa United confirmed his return to the club after a five-month absence. He immediately made an impression, producing six saves and keeping a clean sheet against Golden Arrows on his competitive comeback to claim another Man of the Match award.
He has since maintained his place in the Chippa United team and produced another impressive six-save performance in the club’s 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns on September 12.
His consistent return to competitive football has now earned him a recall to the Super Eagles, with head coach Eric Chelle selecting Nwabali alongside Okoye and Okonkwo for Nigeria’s September AFCON 2027 qualifying fixtures.
Nigeria will face Madagascar in Uyo on Friday, September 25, before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for their second qualifier four days later.
Nwabali’s recall adds another layer of competition to Nigeria’s goalkeeping department, with the Chippa United shot-stopper now looking to reclaim his place between the posts.
