The Portuguese tactician is exploring goalkeeping options ahead of Nigeria’s participation in the next AFCON.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali lived up to the expectations of the Super Eagles as Chippa United beat Golden Arrows 2-0 in the Premier Soccer League on Saturday, Soccernet.ng reported.
Among the spectators watching the encounter at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Guevera was Super Eagles head coach Jose Peceiro.
Peseiro to manage Nwabari after increasing pressure on former FC Porto manager to find a better replacement for Nigeria’s number one goalkeeper Francis Uzoho ahead of the 2023 African Cup of Nations went to South Africa.
After keeping six clean sheets and conceding just 10 goals in United’s 12 league games, Nwabali has moved to the top of the goalkeeper waiting list under Peseiro’s consideration.
Nwabari did not disappoint. His only negative was his 73rd minute yellow card. He made his three saves in United’s 2-0 victory over Chippa, ending a six-game winless streak.
However, the 27-year-old goalkeeper is not necessarily the Super Eagles’ first choice.
Israel-based Adebayo Adeleye and the experienced Daniel Akpeyi remain hopeful of becoming Nigeria’s number one at the upcoming AFCON in Ivory Coast.
Jonathan Rashid, who plays for Swedish club Varnamo and is eligible to represent Sweden, Norway and Nigeria, has also expressed his desire to represent the three-time African champions.
However, Peseiro, who does not trust goalkeepers in the domestic league, will have the final say on who takes the post for the Super Eagles at AFCON.
The Portuguese coach is tasked with leading Nigeria to the semi-finals of the continental championship, which begins in January.
