Nwabali Starts Between Sticks As Nigeria Faces Angola In ‘Tough’ AFCON Quarter-Final Match

Super Eagles 27-year-old shot-stopper Stanley Nwabali has made a full recovery and will be starting in goal for Nigeria in their quarter-final match against Angola on Friday (today).

SportXparte understands there were concerns about Nwabali’s availability earlier following an incident where he was stretchered off the pitch in the 80th minute during the round of 16 win over Cameroon.

The development had raised concerns for Nigerian fans who were doubtful of the Chippa United shot-stopper’s ability to play against Angola, as there were reports of pain and limited training in the media.

However, during his press conference earlier, Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro mentioned that Nwabali would undergo a late fitness test.

The fact that he is starting indicates that he has passed the test.

With Nwabali in the starting XI, Nigeria’s lineup remains unchanged from their previous match. Victor Osimhen will lead the attack, supported by two-goal hero Ademola Lookman.

Iwobi will continue his deep midfield role, Calvin Bassey adding steel to a defence led by captain William Troost-Ekong.

Below is Nigeria’s starting XI against Angola

Stanley Nwabali; Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, William Troost-Ekong, Sanusi Zaidu; Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi; Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen

SportXparte reports that if Nigeria manages to secure a victory against Angola at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny stadium in Abidjan from 6pm, they have the potential to become the first nation to reach the semi-finals of AFCON 2023.