Siviwe Mpengesi: 5 Reasons Chippa United chairman is backing Nigeria's Nwabali over Bafana Bafana

Siviwe Mpengesi has thrown his weight behind Nigeria and Stanley Nwabali. (Photo Credit: Imago and Laduma/X)

FOOTBALL Siviwe Mpengesi: 5 Reasons Chippa United chairman is backing Nigeria's Nwabali over Bafana Bafana

Siviwe Mpengesi: 5 Reasons Chippa United chairman is backing Nigeria's Nwabali over Bafana Bafana

Izuchukwu Akawor • 12:49 - 07.02.2024

The Chippa United chairman's support for Stanley Nwabali and the Super Eagles over Bafana Bafana has caused an uproar on social media.

Chippa United chairman Siviwe Mpengesi caused an uproar in South Africa after pledging his support for Nigeria ahead of their AFCON semifinal against Bafana Bafana.

While his stance provoked heated debate on social media as South Africans accused Mpengesi of betraying his nation, the United boss has his reasons.

Here are five reasons why Mpengesi has thrown patriotism away for club loyalty ahead of the keenly anticipated clash. 

1. Loyalty to player and club

Siviwe’s decision to support Nigeria over South Africa in the AFCON clash stems from his unwavering loyalty to his player, Stanley Nwabali, and his club, Chippa United. 

Stanley Nwabali during his AFCON 2023 bow. (Photo Credit: Nwabali/X)

With Nwabali gaining international recognition and bringing positive attention to Chippa United in the process, Mpengesi sees it as his duty to stand behind his player and the Nigerian national team, prioritising their success over national allegiance.

2. Recognition of player's performance

The United boss’s backing of the Super Eagles in the upcoming match also reflects his acknowledgement of Nwabali's outstanding performance at the 34th AFCON. 

Siviwe 'Chippa" Mpengesi of Chippa United.
Siviwe 'Chippa" Mpengesi of Chippa United. (Photo Credit: Soccer Laduma/X)

With the stellar displays for the former Wikki Tourist man garnering attention and acclaim, Mpengesi recognises the significance of his player's achievements and wishes to support him in his endeavors, even if it means going against his home country.

3. Strategic benefits for Chippa United

By his public show of support, Mpengesi strategically positions Chippa United to reap the benefits of their player's rising profile and international recognition. 

Stanley Nwabali and Onana in a warm embrace in AFCON 2023. (Photo Credit: Nwabali/X)

Embracing Nwabali's success on the global stage not only enhances Chippa United's reputation but also potentially attracts interest from scouts and sponsors, leading to future opportunities and growth for the club. 

Mpengesi's decision to stand behind Nwabali and Nigeria thus aligns with his club's long-term strategic interests, despite the backlash it may provoke from South African fans. 

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4. Personal and professional pride

As the chairman of Chippa United FC, Siviwe takes immense pride in seeing one of his club's players excel on the international stage. 

Supporting the 27-year-old and Nigeria is a source of personal and professional satisfaction for Mpengesi, as it reflects positively on his club's ability to nurture and develop talented players.

Nigeria will face South Africa in the semifinals. (Photo Credit: CAF/X)

By publicly backing Nwabali and Nigeria, Mpengesi reinforces his club's reputation for producing top-quality footballers, enhancing Chippa United's standing within the football community.

5. Nwabali's individual aspirations

 Mpengesi's decision to support Nigeria over South Africa may also be influenced by Nwabali's personal aspirations and goals. 

Super Eagles and Chippa United first choice goalkeeper Nwabali || Imago

If Nwabali expresses a desire to represent Nigeria and compete in international tournaments like the AFCON, Mpengesi may feel compelled to respect and support his player's ambitions. 

By standing behind Nwabali's decision to play for Nigeria, Mpengesi demonstrates his commitment to fostering a supportive and player-centric environment at Chippa United, where individual aspirations are valued and respected.

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Tags:
Nigeria South Africa Chippa United