Chippa United coach Luc Eymael has shed light on why Nigeria’s number one goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, was missing from the club’s matchday squad during their 2-1 loss to Polokwane City on Sunday.
Nwabali, who gained international recognition for his outstanding performances with the Super Eagles at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, was a surprise absentee.
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His omission immediately raised eyebrows, as there were no reports of an injury or suspension leading up to the fixture.
Speaking after the defeat, Eymael confirmed that Nwabali’s absence had nothing to do with fitness but was instead linked to undisclosed internal issues within the club.
“We have to deal with some internal issues that are happening. You saw that one important player [Nwabali] was not there today; it’s a problem we have to solve,” the Belgian tactician explained.
“I cannot talk about that; I prefer not to talk about it to the media. First, I think we have to solve the problem internally, and it’s sad, but it’s like that — sometimes it happens in football.
“But okay, it gives a chance to other guys. They have to take the opportunity. And you know it’s important that everybody wants to play for Chippa United and go in the same direction.”
” It’s the only solution to take this team up, and I think we are capable of doing it.”
Nwabali’s absence will be of particular concern not only to Chippa United fans but also to Nigerian supporters.
The goalkeeper is expected to play a central role in the Super Eagles’ upcoming World Cup qualifying matches.
With his future at the club now uncertain, all eyes will be on whether he returns to the squad in their next outing.
