Chippa United head coach Vusimuzi Vilakazi has expressed robust doubts over the supply of Tremendous Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali for the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Nwabali has been out of motion since sustaining ankle and hand accidents throughout Nigeria’s 2025 FIFA World Cup playoffs in Morocco.
The 29-year-old has missed Chippa United’s final three league matches towards Orlando Pirates, Siwelele FC, and Kaizer Chiefs, along with his restoration reportedly slower than anticipated.
Chatting with SuperSport, Vilakazi mentioned the present state of the goalkeeper’s accidents leaves his AFCON participation in severe doubt.
“I doubt it, trying on the state of his damage. I don’t assume he’ll make it,” the coach acknowledged.
“Once I spoke to him, he was assured he would recuperate very quickly, however clearly he desires to be on the Cup of Nations. The fact for now’s that he’s nonetheless injured. I hope for the most effective that he may discover himself there.”
Vilakazi additional revealed that Nwabali’s hand damage requires surgical procedure, noting that the participant had been managing the issue for a while earlier than aggravating it whereas on worldwide responsibility.
Regardless of the considerations, Nwabali has been included in Nigeria’s 54-man provisional squad for the match.
Tremendous Eagles head coach might be hoping for a fast enchancment, particularly within the wake of latest setbacks involving Benjamin Frederick’s damage and the sudden retirement announcement of captain William Troost-Ekong.
