In a surprising turn of events, South African club Chippa United has expressed its unwavering support for Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, ahead of the highly anticipated clash against Bafana Bafana.
The Super Eagles will vie for a place in Sunday’s final against South Africa today, with Nwabali expected to lead the line for Nigeria.
The Chairman of Chippa United FC, Siviwe Chippa Mpengesi, penned a letter praising Nwabali’s prowess and contribution to the Super Eagles’ performance in the competition.
He also congratulated the South African Professional Soccer League (PSL) for having the highest number of domestic players at the AFCON.
“I would like to start by extending my congratulations to the Premier Soccer League (PSL) for showcasing the highest number of domestic players at the 2023 AFCON tournament,” Mpengesi wrote in his letter.
“Close to 30 players from South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, Ghana, Nigeria, and even the host country, Ivory Coast who play in the PSL league were part of the AFCON 2023 tournament all thanks to
PSL League Chairman Dr. Irvin Khoza.
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Khoza acknowledged South Africa Coach Hugo Broos’s decision to select domestic players and praised their outstanding performance.
He said the club was proud to have one of its own behind the sticks for Nigeria.
He wrote, “As the Chairman of Chippa United FC and as a proud South African, I find myself in a unique position during this 2023 AFCON tournament in that our very own Nigeria international Stanley Nwabali has been a revelation for the Nigerian National Team.”
The chairman expressed his best wishes for both player Stanley Nwubali and the Nigerian Super Eagles as they face off against South Africa Bafana Bafana.
“With Stanley’s rising profile and the international attention it brings to Chippa United FC, the benefits have been nothing but positive. Therefore,I and Chippa United FC stand behind our player Stanley Nwabali and the Nigerian Super Eagles tomorrow against South Africa Bafana Bafana. We wish the Super Eagles all the best,” Mpengesi added.
The match between Nigeria and South Africa is scheduled for 6pm today at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake.