Ex-Bendel Insurance GK hails Stanley Nwabali’s rise as Nigeria’s No.1, eyes Super Eagles debut against Rwanda

Uncapped Super Eagles goalkeeper Amas Obasogie has praised Stanley Nwabali’s remarkable rise to becoming Nigeria’s first-choice shot-stopper, calling it a source of motivation, Soccernet.ng reports.

Nwabali’s journey to the top has been anything but conventional.

Before his emergence, Nigeria struggled to find a dependable number one, with Francis Uzoho and Daniel Akpeyi previously occupying the role without securing it long-term.

However, that changed when the Chippa United goalkeeper was called up by then-Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

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Seizing his opportunity, Nwabali delivered a standout campaign at AFCON 2023, playing all seven matches and keeping four clean sheets.

His heroics were crucial in Nigeria’s run to the final, particularly in the semi-final against South Africa, where he saved two penalties in the decisive shootout.

Now firmly established as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, Nwabali’s rapid ascent has caught the attention of fellow professionals, including Obasogie, who hopes to follow a similar path.

What Obasogie said of Stanley Nwabali

Speaking to TheCable, the former Bendel Insurance goalkeeper said: “I respect the effort Stanley Nwabali has put into claiming the number one shirt.

“Remember, he also proved himself in the NPFL before doing the same at Chippa United. So being in the Eagles camp is a huge opportunity for me.”

Obasogie, who received his second senior call-up this month, is eager to learn from his more experienced teammates and possibly making his Super Eagles debut against Rwanda on Friday.

“I respect all the players, and the experience improves me tremendously,” the 25-year-old shot-stopper added.

“I train with the mentality that I am a Super Eagles goalkeeper and dream of myself putting on the national team jersey. If the opportunity comes to represent Nigeria, I aim to play my part and take it fully.”

Obasogie joins Nwabali and newly invited Kayode Bankole in Nigeria’s goalkeeping department for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

All 23 invited players have now reported to the Super Eagles camp in Kigali, with Valencia forward Umar Sadiq and New England Revolution midfielder Alhassan Yusuf arriving on Tuesday to complete the squad.

Nigeria will face Rwanda on Friday, March 21, before hosting Zimbabwe in Uyo four days later.