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‘Keep it to yourself’ – Super Eagles goalkeeper Nwabali reveals what Peseiro told him
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has clarified that his teammate Francis Uzoho remains the team’s first-choice goalkeeper at the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United, has been given the starting role in Nigeria’s first two games at the AFCON, including a clean sheet against the host nation, Ivory Coast. However, he emphasized that Uzoho is still considered the team’s primary shot-stopper.
The revelation provides insight into the coach’s tactical decisions and demonstrates the depth and competition within the Super Eagles’ squad during the tournament.
Speaking to The Guardian UK reporter Osasu Obayiuwana, Nwabali said, “To be honest it has been nice, it has been God throughout but Iam not the first choice.
“Uzoho is still the first choice, I only had an opportunity to play. I feel I have to do my best when I have an opportunity to play.
“I was not expecting to play the opening game but I am ready even when I got the call-up but I was not sure of a starting place.”
Nwabali added, “He [Peseiro] didn’t talk to me initially. It was a day before our game, after our last training he came to me, ‘Stanley keep it to yourself, you are going to play’. I told him I am always ready and not worried about it.”