Nwabali vs Okoye: Former Nigeria Goalkeeper Weighs In on Competition Between Two Super Eagles Stars

• Stanley Nwabali is currently Nigeria's starting goalkeeper, but Maduka Okoye's return could see him lose his position in the side
• The Udinese goalkeeper has barely played for the team since the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, in which he made a costly error
• Ex-Super Eagles keeper, Dele Aiyenugba, has weighed in on the competition between them ahead of the South Africa game

Stanley Nwabali has been Nigeria's No. 1 goalkeeper since the start of the year, but Maduka Okoye's re-emergence is probably giving him something to think about.

The Chippa United star was phenomenal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after unseating Francis Uzoho.

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba, has commented on the two goalkeepers' brewing competition for the No. 1 jersey.

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

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Nwabali had a decent 2023/24 campaign at Chippa United. The 27-year-old kept 11 clean sheets in 26 appearances for the Chilli Boys.

Meanwhile, Okoye needed some time to rediscover his form following an error that saw Nigeria eliminated from the 2021 AFCON.

This past season, he has found himself. He was a second-choice goalkeeper at Serie A's Udinese for the first 17 games of the 2023/24 season but played every second in the next 21, per Transfermarkt.

It is unclear who Finidi George, the new coach, will pick against South Africa today (June 7).

The goalkeeper recently said he is not under pressure and welcomed Okoye's return to the team.

Aiyenugba on Nwabali vs Okoye

The former goalkeeper, who played 17 times for the Super Eagles, has urged Finidi to keep Nwabali as the starting shot-stopper.

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"Nwabali has proven his worth in the nation's cup, and we should continue with him as our number one. It is great that we have strong alternatives like Okoye and Enyimba captain, Ojo Olorunleke. This depth is crucial as it ensures Nwabali stays on his toes," he said via Brila.

"I am happy to see Okoye back on his feet. Nwabali should remain in goal with the others supporting and pushing him. Their time will come, too, and that is the nature of being a goalkeeper," Aiyenugba added.

Nwabali started every game at the 2023 AFCON after Jose Peseiro dropped Francis Uzoho.

Nwabali drops transfer hint

Sports Brief also prviously reported on Nwabali expressing his desire to depart DStv Premiership side, Chippa United, this summer.

The former Katsina United star had an impressive 2023/24 season with the South African club, but his exit seems to be imminent.