AFCON 2023: Nwabali not ruled out — NFF

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) said Stanley Nwabali, who has put on a very good display at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, may still be available for selection for the quarter-final game with Palancas Negras of Angola if he passes a late fitness test set for Wednesday.

According to NFF Communication Department, the team medics said the 27-year-old copped a mild ligament injury during the Round of 16 battle with the Indomitable Lions on Saturday and the doctors have been working on him to see if he will come good in a late fitness test 48 hours before the cracker with the Angolans.

“Fingers crossed. If all goes well, he might be available for selection,” the statement read in part.

Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United in the South African league has won the hearts of Nigerians with his self-assured posture between the sticks and his penchant for launching onslaughts with long kicks that have been unsettling the opposition at this tournament.

In a related development, the NFF has decried insinuations in some quarters that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is delaying payments of match bonuses and allowances due to the Super Eagles.

“That is sheer idle talk without substance. The NFF is grateful to the CBN for the way and manner they have continued to expedite action on payment requests that we have sent to abound to this competition. It is unfair for anyone to concoct lies against the institution for whatever reasons.

“We have not experienced any delays or complication of processes at the CBN this time, and we give kudos to them for their diligence and great sense of duty,” NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, said on Tuesday.

Sanusi also heaped plaudits on the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, for the commendable role he continues to play in ensuring the welfare of Nigerian footballers, nay athletes, is paramount.

“We cannot thank the Honourable Minister enough for the noble and positive role that he continues to play in the development of Nigeria sports generally, especially his commitment to the welfare of the main actors in the game. He has led from the front in all our pursuits and we give him kudos for his efforts.”

Based on prior agreement with the NFF, the Super Eagles will be paid a qualification bonus for reaching the knockout rounds, and not the match-by-match payment option. Their match bonuses are also graduated as they progress in the tournament.