From a modest €30,000 to a remarkable €300,000, the market value of Super Eagles’ Nwabali reflects his stellar rise in football.
Since taking over from Francis Uzoho in the Nigerian goal, Stanley Nwabali has cemented his position as the team’s top goalkeeper, delivering exceptional performances.
The Chippa United and Nigeria goalkeeper has witnessed a significant surge in his market value following his impressive displays for the Super Eagles at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In six appearances for the Super Eagles, the 27-year-old has only let in two goals, showcasing his talent with a remarkable save in Nigeria’s 1-0 victory against host nation Ivory Coast.
Moreover, Nwabali emerged as the hero in Nigeria’s AFCON 2023 journey, saving two crucial penalty kicks in the match against South Africa, securing their spot in the final.
Before the start of AFCON, Nigeria faced a glaring weakness in the goalkeeper position, with former number one Francis Uzoho facing criticism from fans due to several errors, including one that cost Nigeria a place at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Jose Peseiro, the Super Eagles’ coach, entrusted Nwabali with his debut in Nigeria’s AFCON opener, and the former Katsina United player has repaid the coach’s confidence with brave performances.
Prior to joining Chippa United, Nwabali’s market value was a modest €30,000. However, his exceptional performances at AFCON 2023 have catapulted his value to approximately €300,000, a tenfold increase.
Chippa United is reportedly seeking €2,000,000 for Nwabali, the current Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper, with interest from clubs like Kaizer Chiefs and several European teams. There are also reports of Saudi Arabian clubs closely monitoring Nwabali, who has maintained seven clean sheets in 15 appearances for Chippa United this season.
Since joining Chippa United in October 2022, Nwabali has ascended to the position of the club’s primary goalkeeper, showcasing his talent and determination.
As the Super Eagles of Nigeria prepare to face host Ivory Coast in the AFCON final, Nwabali and his teammates aim to clinch the title for the fourth time.
Having already defeated Ivory Coast in the group stages, Nigeria anticipates another stellar performance from Stanley Nwabali as they strive to lift the trophy they last claimed in 2013.
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