Isaac James: I cried when I got my Super Eagles call-up

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has lashed out at his critics following his return to Nigeria's squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in September 2027. The 30-year-old, who has been away from the national team for some time, shared a video on Snapchat showcasing his penalty-saving skills against Egypt's Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush during the bronze-medal match at AFCON 2025.

The video caption reads, "I'm back, it's time to keep crying 😂." Nwabali, who was a standout performer at the tournament, was named Man of the Match for his crucial saves. However, his situation became uncertain after the tournament, with speculation surrounding his future with his club Chippa United. After leaving the team in February, he did not secure a new club, which ultimately cost him his place in the Super Eagles.

Maduka Okoye then became the first-choice goalkeeper, starting in Nigeria's recent friendlies against Poland and Portugal. Arthur Okonkwo, a former Arsenal academy goalkeeper, also joined Nigeria's ranks after a change in his international allegiance. Nwabali's return to the national team came in July after Chippa United confirmed his rejoining the club.

He quickly re-established himself as the starting goalkeeper, earning the Man of the Match award against Golden Arrows by making six saves and keeping a clean sheet. Now, Chelle has named Nwabali, Okoye, and Okonkwo for the September qualifiers, providing a glimmer of hope for the goalkeeping competition.