Since replacing Francis Uzoho in goal for Nigeria, Stanley Nwabali has made the number one spot his, with some outstanding performances
Chippa United and Nigeria shot-stopper has seen his market value skyrocket after an impressive showing for the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The 27-year-old has conceded just one goal in four appearances for the Super Eagles, producing one of the saves of the tournament in Nigeria's 1-0 win against host nation Ivory Coast
Nwabali repays Peseiro's faith
Before AFCON started the Nigerian team had one glaring weakness and it was in the goalkeeping department.
Former Super Eagles number one Francis Uzoho was unconvincing and suffered backlash from fans after series of blunders - one of which cost Nigeria a spot at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Jose Peseiro handed Nwabali his first cap in Nigeria's opening game at AFCON and the former Kaduna United man has rewarded the faith of his coach with some courageous performances so far.
Nwabali stock skyrockets
Before switching the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) for the South African, Nwabali was only worth just €30,000. However, his heroics at the AFCON 2023 have seen that value soar ten times to about €300,000.
Pulse Sports also reported that Chippa United are reportedly asking for €2,000,000 for the current Super Eagles number one, with Kaizer Chiefs and some European clubs looking to sign the 27-year-old.
Reports also have it that some Saudi Arabian clubsides are monitoring Nwabali who has kept seven clean sheets in 15 appearances for Chippa United this season.
Stanley Nwabali joined Chippa United in October 2022 and has worked his way up to become the number-one goalkeeper at the South African club.
The injury Nwabali picked up in Nigeria's round of 16 win over Cameroon makes him a doubt for the Super Eagles' last eight tie against Angola.
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