Stanley Nwabali’s name stirred plenty of noise after he missed Chippa United’s clash with Polokwane, with whispers of a fallout spreading fast—www.isagoal.com reports.
The story gained momentum when reports quoted coach Luc Eymael suggesting there were “problems” between the Super Eagles goalkeeper and the club.
Days later, Nwabali was back between the sticks for Chippa United against Sekhukhune, pulling off a penalty save in the final minute to rescue a point.
His body language during the match, chatting with teammates and rallying the defence, looked like a man fully invested in the team’s cause.
Eymael, speaking after that game, said his words had been misinterpreted and the situation was never as serious as it sounded.
“There was some kind of miscommunication, not only with Stanley but also with the medical staff,” Eymael explained to reporters.
He clarified that Nwabali sat out the Polokwane match due to a minor injury, not because of any dispute with the club.
The Belgian coach praised his goalkeeper’s mentality, saying: “He is very secure, calm for the defence, and you saw his importance.”
Chippa United now hope the 29-year-old remains fit, as he has been a standout performer in their season so far.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s national team coach Eric Chelle will be counting on Nwabali for October’s World Cup qualifiers.
