Christian Nwabali has kept seven clean sheets in fifteen games for Chippa United in the DSTV Premiership in South Africa this season.
Super Eagles and Chippa United goalkeeper, Christian Nwabili was left unsatisfied with his performance in Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Ivory Coast at the Stade Olympique Ouattara, Soccernet.ng reports.
William Troost-Ekong’s well-drilled shot from the spot kick made all the difference as Jose Peseiro’s men held on for all three points against Jean-Louis Gasset’s Ivory Coast.
Nwabali, 27, was drafted into the Super Eagles squad after the coach, Jose Peseiro, went to watch him in action for his club side before the former Lobi Stars goalkeeper was included in his eventual 25-man list.
There were questions over who would take over the number one spot as the Nigerian team headed to Ivory Coast, considering the consistent errors from Francis Uzoho.
The Portuguese coach opted to start Nwabali in goal in the opening Group game against Equatorial Guinea, and although largely untested, showed good signs with his calmness, ability on the ball and how he commanded his back-line.
The 1.97m tall goalkeeper made three crucial saves to secure a clean sheet and deny the hosts a chance to equalize as Nigeria got all three points in the hugely anticipated clash, but the goalkeeper was not happy with his performance.
“No, I’m not happy. I feel I should be doing more for my country, so I don’t feel it was a great game for me, or how my game usually is. I’m happy for the team’s win, but my performance is unlike me. I want to play the ball more, be more confident, and enjoy myself,” the 27-year-old told Soccernet.ng after the game.
Nigeria will play their final group game against Guinea-Bissau next week Monday as they look to seal qualification from Group A.
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Goal keeper Stanley Nwabili I think can gradually become the reliable grove hand needed for the Super Eagles, if the team can be built around his skill-set of cohension, doggedness, backline organization, sharpness , calmness , shot antispation and shooting accuracy.
I thank God for the lives of all Super Eagles of Nigeria. congratulations to them all and to all Nigerians. I have have to make some comments due to my observations so far as this Afcon gets on. I want to appeal to Oshimen to stop playing selfish game, it won't take the team anywhere. in a situation where he it's tight for him to score a goal, he should lay it down for another player who is in a better position to do so. it should be seen as a team work. All players should note this. I am compelled to point this out because this was what we lacked in our team that made us not to win our 1st match of the tournament against Equatorial Guinea. About the next match with Guinea Bissau, I observed that they always get confused in their defence once a long sort is sent from opponent. Oshimen, Chukwueze and Lookman can always take advantage of this in order to secure our 3 point. Also someone like Iwobi should always be around these 3 men for assistance. May the Lord see us through.