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Super Eagles first choice Stanley Nwabali is expected to miss the game against Rwanda, with Maduka Okoye set to make a return to the post for Nigeria.
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will miss the upcoming match against Rwanda as he takes time to grieve the loss of his father, Godspower Onyekam Abali, who passed away recently at the age of 67.
In light of this, head coach Augustine Eguavoen has decided to excuse Nwabali from the squad for the final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match in Uyo.
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Dayo Enebi Achor, the Team Administrator, confirmed Nwabali's absence, stating, “He has been excused from the game. However, the player will come to watch the match and cheer his teammates on.”
This decision is significant for Nwabali, who has been a reliable presence in goal for the Super Eagles during Eguavoen's tenure.
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Nwabali’s departure opens the door for Maduka Okoye to reclaim the starting position.
Okoye has not played for Nigeria since a disappointing performance in the AFCON 2021 quarterfinal against Tunisia in January 2022.
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His return is seen as a chance for redemption as he competes with Ethiopia-based goalkeeper Amas Obasogie for the number one jersey.
Nwabali's absence marks a poignant moment for the Super Eagles, who had previously enjoyed a strong defensive record under Eguavoen, with four clean sheets in their last four matches.
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The team will need to rally and support each other as they face Rwanda in the match which could see Eguavoen and his team finish the qualifiers unbeaten.
With a spirited Rwanda set to test the Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, players and fans alike will be looking to honour Nwabali's commitment to the national team while also supporting him during this difficult time.
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The Super Eagles have won Group D after coming from behind to hold the Benin Republic to a draw in their last match on the road to AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
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