Ex-South Africa coach questions Kaizer Chiefs’ preference for Rwanda goalie over Nwabali

Former South Africa goalkeeper coach Alex Heredia has questioned Kaizer Chiefs’ decision to sign Rwanda national team goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari instead of Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, Soccernet.ng reports.

Nwabali has risen to the limelight in the last six months. Coach Jose Peseiro invited him to the national team for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year to replace Francis Uzoho who was unconvincing in goal.

The 28-year-old shot-stopper impressed, registering four clean sheets in the run-up to Nigeria’s second-place finish. Nwabali was also great in the semi-final penalty shootout against South Africa, making two saves.

Following his brilliant performances, Nwabali has been linked to clubs in South Africa and abroad. The Chippa United goalkeeper has been linked to QPR, Al Ettifaq, Kaizer Chiefs, and Orlando Pirates.

However, nothing concrete has happened yet, albeit members of Chippa United staff have expressed skepticism about the prospect of Nwabali staying at the club.

Meanwhile, it appears Kaizer Chiefs are no longer in the race for Nwabali’s services after they acquired the services of Rwandan goalkeeper Ntwari.

Following this development, former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper coach Heredia has questioned Kaizer Chiefs’ decision to sign Ntwari instead of Nwabali.

“It’s not easy to play on a big, big stage like Kaizer Chiefs, where even during the training sessions you’re under pressure,” Heredia told Kickoff.

“They must not judge him in his first game, they must give him four-five games to see how he reacts. At the moment, he is a good goalkeeper, adding quality to the side.

“For a goalkeeper to perform, he needs a good team. It’s the same with the team. But the Nigerian Nwabali, looks more solid compared to the Rwandan because we’ve seen most of his games.

“I watched him both here in the PSL and at the AFCON, and he’s done quite well. In my opinion, the Nigeria would have been a more positive option for Chiefs.”

As it stands, Nwabali would prefer a transfer to a decent club in Europe. But if he does not get a good offer, he would likely remain in South Africa.