Stanley Nwabali: Super Eagles Goalkeeper Explains Why Nigerian Players Prefer Other African Leagues

• Stanley Nwabali has disclosed why Nigerian players prefer the South African league over the NPFL
• The Chippa United goalkeeper has experienced the differences between the two leagues firsthand
• Nwabali's impressive performances at the 2023 AFCON have sparked interest from European clubs

Nigeria goalkeeper, Stanley Bobo Nwabali, has shed light on the reasons why many home-grown players are drawn to playing in other African leagues rather than staying in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

Nwabali, who currently plays for Chippa United in South Africa, has experienced the differences between the two leagues firsthand.

The 27-year-old, who has represented the Super Eagles, played in various tiers of Nigerian football, from the non-league to the NPFL, before moving to South Africa two years ago.

All you need to know about Stanley Nwabali, the talented Nigerian goalkeeper

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"In West Africa, our leagues are not as good. We want to go to Europe, we want to come to South Africa, we want to go to Morocco, all those kinds of leagues. If your league is nice, you're getting paid, you're getting sponsors, what are you leaving for?" Nwabali said, as reported by Soccernet.

The goalkeeper highlighted the significant pay gap between the NPFL and the PSL as a major factor driving Nigerian players to seek opportunities abroad.

Nwabali's comments echo the sentiment of many Nigerian players who have succeeded in the South African league.

The goalkeeper's impressive performances at the recent 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) saw the team reach the final, only losing to hosts Ivory Coast.

As per Soccer Laduuma, his performances heightened speculation about his future. While he has been linked with several European clubs, Nwabali's comments suggest he is content with his current situation in South Africa.

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Nwabali vows to repay Chippa United owner

Sports Brief reported that Nwabali promised to repay Siviwe Mpengesi for his support throughout the 2023 AFCON.

Mpengesi irked many South Africans after he declared his support for Nigeria before the semi-final clash against Bafana Bafana.

Super Eagles went ahead to win via penalties, with Nwabali saving two spot-kicks.