Former Super Eagles and Moroka Swallows goalkeeper coach, Greg Etafia, has provided a reassuring update on the fitness of Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, as preparations intensify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United in the South African Premier Division, has been nursing an injury in recent weeks, prompting concerns over his readiness for the continental showpiece.
Etafia, speaking from South Africa, confirmed that the 28-year-old has begun light training and is making steady progress in his recovery. He noted that Nwabali has moved from gym sessions to light work on grass — a key step in his rehabilitation. He added that he had spoken with a Chippa United goalkeeper who offered first-hand feedback on Nwabali’s condition.
“He has started training,” Etafia told a Lagos-based sports radio station. “I spoke to one of his teammates, the goalkeeper who stepped in during his absence, and he confirmed that he has resumed training and is feeling better.”
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Etafia also shed light on the club’s schedule, which he said has helped Nwabali maintain rhythm as he continues his recovery.
“They haven’t gone on break yet,” he said. “I think they will go on the 20th or 22nd, so he is still with the team. He’s feeling better and has started both gym work and grass training, which is very good for him.”
The former Super Eagles shot-stopper expressed confidence that Nwabali will be fit in time for AFCON, stressing that the early signs point to a full return.
“We’ll see what happens, but from what I’m hearing and what the guys at Chippa are saying, I think he’s going to be okay,” he said. “He just needs to keep working, and if he continues like this, he should be ready. I’m confident he will make it.”
Nwabali’s expected return is seen as a major boost to Nigeria’s AFCON campaign, following his impressive outings at the last tournament, where his calm presence and leadership in goal earned him widespread praise.
