Nwabali vs Okoye: Former Nigeria goalkeeper weighs in on competition between two Super Eagles stars

Stanley Nwabali has been Nigeria's No. 1 goalkeeper since the start of the year, but Maduka Okoye's re-emergence is probably giving him something to think about.

The Chippa United star was phenomenal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after unseating Francis Uzoho.

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba, has commented on the two goalkeepers' brewing competition for the No. 1 jersey.

Nwabali had a decent 2023/24 campaign at Chippa United. The 27-year-old kept 11 clean sheets in 26 appearances for the Chilli Boys.

Meanwhile, Okoye needed some time to rediscover his form following an error that saw Nigeria eliminated from the 2021 AFCON.

This past season, he has found himself. He was a second-choice goalkeeper at Serie A's Udinese for the first 17 games of the 2023/24 season but played every second in the next 21, per Transfermarkt.

It is unclear who Finidi George, the new coach, will pick against South Africa today (June 7).

The goalkeeper recently said he is not under pressure and welcomed Okoye's return to the team.

Aiyenugba on Nwabali vs Okoye

The former goalkeeper, who played 17 times for the Super Eagles, has urged Finidi to keep Nwabali as the starting shot-stopper.

"Nwabali has proven his worth in the nation's cup, and we should continue with him as our number one. It is great that we have strong alternatives like Okoye and Enyimba captain, Ojo Olorunleke. This depth is crucial as it ensures Nwabali stays on his toes," he said via Brila.

"I am happy to see Okoye back on his feet. Nwablai should remain in goal with the others supporting and pushing him. Their time will come, too, and that is the nature of being a goalkeeper," Aiyenugba added.

Nwabali started every game at the 2023 AFCON after Jose Peseiro dropped Francis Uzoho.