Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye started and helped Udinese return to winning ways on Saturday, as Super Eagles’ first-choice shot-stopper, Stanley Nwabali, missed another league game for Chippa United, www.aclsports.com reports.
It has been a mixed time at the club level for the duo since Nigeria failed to reach the 2026 intercontinental playoffs in Mexico. Okoye, who was on the bench during the African playoffs, has been the more active one in the Serie A, while Nwabali is yet to return between the sticks for Chippa United in the PSL.
After last week’s performance against Bologna, Okoye gave an assured performance on Saturday as his Udine side beat Parma 2-0 on the road. The 26-year-old made two saves in the game and was one of his side’s best performers on the evening.
Meanwhile, Stanley Nwabali continues to remain absent for Chippa United after his penalty heroics against DR Congo. The former Enyimba man was last in goal for the Chilli Boys in early November when he kept a clean sheet against Magesi. However, the shot-stopper has now missed consecutive league games against Orlando Pirates and Siwelele FC.
With the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco fast approaching, it remains to be seen whether Nwabali will return to the Chippa squad once again as his side continues to fight for survival.
