'Take it easy' – Super Eagles LB Onyeamachi says Nwabali studied Enyeama, deserves more respect

Super Eagles left-back Bruno Onyeamachi has come to the defence of Stanley Nwabali, urging Nigerians to ease up on the criticism of the Chippa United shot-stopper.

Nigeria were faced with a goalkeeping crisis in the months leading up to the start of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, with former first choice goalkeeper Francis Uzoho a shadow of himself due to his inactivity at Cypriot club Omonia Nicosia. 

Then Super Eagles coach José Peseiro travelled to Port Elizabeth to closely monitor Nwabali before including him in the squad for the Afcon in Ivory Coast.

Nwabali has established himself as Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper since his standout performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, but has come under scrutiny in recent matches following a dip in form that has drawn criticism from both fans and pundits.

He was singled out for criticism after he conceded a late goal during the 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier in Uyo. 

Onyeamachi praised Nwabali's calm demeanour and leadership qualities, revealing that the Super Eagles goalkeeper models his game after Nigerian legend Vincent Enyeama.

"Nwabali is an easygoing guy you can communicate with. He knows what he needs to do and what he shouldn’t do, so he's a chief," Bruno Onyeamachi told Football Fans Tribe.

"Nwabali has studied Enyeama and observed how he played. He knows that if he makes a mistake, he is out.

"That’s why he communicates with the backline, making sure they understand what he needs and doesn’t need from them.

"Sometimes I read comments about Nwabali and see people criticizing him. Nigerians should take it easy."

Nwabali has conceded five goals in his last five appearances for the Super Eagles, keeping just one clean sheet.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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