Nwabali fit for Pirates showdown after injury scare

Chippa United number one goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has returned to training with his club, easing fears of a serious injury just days before their crucial league match against Orlando Pirates.

The league tie will be staged at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Sunday, with kickoff set for 15:00 (SA time).

The 29-year-old was stretchered off in the 35th minute of Tuesday’s Betway Premiership match against Richards Bay FC, sparking concern over his fitness for Nigeria’s upcoming crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September.

However, the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper participated in a light training session on Friday at Chippa, signalling his quick recovery.

Nwabali is now expected to be in goal for Chippa United’s key clash against Orlando Pirates on Sunday at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

The positive news comes just after he was officially named in Nigeria’s 23-man squad for their World Cup qualifier against Rwanda and South Africa. He is set to join the national team camp in Uyo after his club commitments this weekend.

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