Akpeyi throws weight behind Nwabali's Super Eagles return bid

Daniel Akpeyi, former goalkeeper for the Super Eagles and Kaizer Chiefs, believes Stanley Nwabali's return to Chippa United could be the catalyst for his recall to the national team, citing a lack of regular club football as the main reason for his absence from Eric Chelle's squad.

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Nwabali had established himself as Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper, playing a crucial role in the team's run to the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast and helping the Super Eagles secure a record-extending ninth bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

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However, since leaving Chippa United by mutual consent in February, Nwabali has not featured for the national team, missing out on Nigeria's victorious 2026 Unity Cup campaign and friendlies against Poland and Portugal, with other goalkeepers such as Francis Uzoho, Arthur Okonkwo, and Maduka Okoye taking his place.

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Akpeyi expressed his opinion that Nwabali's proven quality for the Super Eagles should count in his favour once he returns to form, stating that he has been "excellent, absolutely excellent" and "faultless for Nigeria".

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Akpeyi noted that Nwabali's consistent performances for the Super Eagles have taken the team to great heights, and he expects him to regain his form and earn the trust of the coaches, potentially becoming Nigeria's number one in the next few games.

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Akpeyi attributed Nwabali's exclusion from the national team to his lack of club attachment, rather than any decline in ability, explaining that not being part of a team makes it difficult to get invited to the national team, even if one's skills have not diminished.

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According to Akpeyi, Nwabali's decision to return to Chippa United, where he started his career, provides him with the best opportunity to rediscover his form and get recalled to the national team, as being part of a team gives him a platform to play and showcase his abilities.

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Nwabali will aim to establish himself at Chippa United as the 2026/27 South African Premiership season kicks off on August 1, with the goal of returning to top form ahead of Nigeria's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, which is set to begin in September.