Nwabali claims MOTM award on Chippa return
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was named Man of the Match in Chippa United’s 2026/27 PSL opener against Golden Arrows on Saturday, producing a commanding display on his first competitive appearance in eight months.
According to Fotmob, the 30-year-old finished the goalless draw at the King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium with a 9.1 rating, the highest of any player on the pitch, after making six saves to preserve a clean sheet for the Chilli Boys.
Nwabali departed Chippa United after Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign in Morocco, with both parties mutually agreeing to terminate his contract.
He was re-signed last month following a difficult personal period that included the public revelation of his internal struggles with mental health after the death of his parents.
The former Enyimba keeper frustrated Golden Arrows throughout the contest despite the Durban side enjoying the lion’s share of possession and the most shots on goal.
His most decisive intervention came just before the hour mark, when he produced a double save to deny Ronaldo Van Neel.
He made three high claims, three clearances and 12 ball recoveries, though his distribution, at 65 per cent passing accuracy, remains an area for improvement.
Nwabali first rose to prominence in 2023, when he starred for the Super Eagles at the Africa Cup of Nations to establish himself as one of Africa’s standout goalkeepers, displacing former Nigeria number one Francis Uzoho in the process.
He subsequently lost his place to Maduka Okoye after leaving Chippa United and spending time without a club.
His performance against Golden Arrows will serve as a timely statement to Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle that one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers is back to his best and ready to compete for the national team jersey once again.
Chippa United, who finished four points above the relegation zone last season, will look to build on their opening-day point when they host Richards Bay on August 11.
