Akpeyi Says Nwabali Can Reclaim Super Eagles Number One Spot After Chippa United Return

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has backed Stanley Nwabali to return to the Nigerian national team following his move back to South African club Chippa United.

Nwabali, who was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the 2024 and 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, has been absent from the Super Eagles since leaving Chippa United by mutual consent in February.

He missed Nigeria’s successful 2026 Unity Cup campaign and subsequent friendly matches against Poland and Portugal.
Speaking to FARPost, Akpeyi said Nwabali’s absence was largely due to his lack of regular club football rather than any decline in his performances.

He praised the goalkeeper’s contributions to the national team, noting that he played a key role in Nigeria’s recent achievements.

According to Akpeyi, returning to Chippa United provides Nwabali with the ideal platform to regain his form, secure regular playing time, and rebuild the confidence of the national team coaches.

The former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper expressed confidence that Nwabali can quickly return to top form and compete for a place in the Super Eagles squad.

He added that he would not be surprised if the goalkeeper regains his position as Nigeria’s first-choice shot-stopper in the coming months.

Nwabali will be aiming to impress when the 2026/27 South African Premiership season begins on August 1 as he seeks a return to international football ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

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