Former Nigeria goalkeeper Greg Etafia says his compatriot Stanley Nwabali has all the tools to succeed and play abroad after he starred for the Super Eagles in their victory against host nation Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations Group A match on Thursday.
However, he said it is too early to say Nigeria might have finally found Vincent Enyeama’s replacement. Enyeama was the nation’s captain before and was capped at the record 101 times for the Super Eagles.
Nwabali was assured in goals against the Elephants at Olympique Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan on Thursday, dashing off his line in the first half to use his body to make a point-blank save to deny Christian Kouame.
Ivorian defender Evan Ndicka had another chance to get the better of Nwabali, but failed to connect properly with a half-volley from near the penalty spot, allowing the Chippa United goalkeeper to make a comfortable save.
The Super Eagles, who physically matched the Ivorians, got the job done when William Troost-Ekong slammed a penalty down the middle in the second half after star striker Victor Osimhen had his ankle kicked.
“Remember, I mean, we had the likes of Daniel Akpeyi who did well at Chippa United,” said Etafia to the iDiski Times.
“So far so good (for Nwabali). Let us see how the tournament goes. The more they go in the tournament, and he performs very well – I think he has the size, the present, I think a European team will enquire about him.
“I just wish he can continue to do well, but he has everything to be a top ‘keeper.”
Nwabali’s performance also saw former Nigeria international John Ogu writing on X, saying “Dear Nwabali, don’t let all this shout get to you. Stay focused and work hard.”
Coach Jose Peseiro, based on Nwabali’s performance in these two matches where they have collected four points, appears that he will not change goalkeepers when they face pointless Guinea-Bissau in the last Group A match at Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan on Monday.
Nigeria, who are level with Equatorial Guinea at the top of the group but second because of goal difference, need to avoid a defeat against bottom side Guinea-Bissau who cannot reach the knockout stages.
“I thought mostly the game against Ivory Coast he (Nwabali) stood firm,” added Etafia, who was understudy to Enyeama when Nigeria claimed the bronze medal at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia.
“The decision-making was good; he didn’t have much to do. But things that came his way he dealt with them properly and he can play with his feet properly.
“I think, as I said, as the tournament progresses, he will grow. I’m just so happy for him.
“His presence is very important. He looked like a proper Nigeria goalkeeper, so I’m happy for him. I just hope and wish that he continues to do well throughout the tournament and, if possible, win the tournament.”
