Nwabali Sends Cryptic “Keep Crying” Message After Super Eagles Recall

Posted : 23 September 2026

Stanley Nwabali has returned to the Super Eagles squad for the first time since the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and has marked his comeback with a cryptic social media message. The Chippa United goalkeeper posted footage of his penalty saves against Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush from Nigeria’s bronze-medal victory over Egypt, adding: “I’m back, it’s time to keep crying 😂.”

Nwabali’s return comes as Nigeria prepare for their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar on Friday. The 30-year-old is back in Eric Chelle’s squad after a lengthy absence from international football.

The goalkeeper was Nigeria’s first choice at the 2025 AFCON and produced a memorable performance in the third-place playoff against Egypt. He saved penalties from Salah and Marmoush as Nigeria won the shootout 4-2 after the match ended level, earning the Man of the Match award.

Nwabali’s international situation changed after the tournament when he left Chippa United in February 2026. A move to another club did not materialize, leaving him without competitive football for several months. He subsequently missed Nigeria’s international assignments as Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo were given opportunities.

Chippa United confirmed Nwabali’s return in July after five months away from the club. He quickly returned to competitive action and impressed during the new South African season, including a Man of the Match display against Golden Arrows after making six saves and keeping a clean sheet.

His absence had also opened the door for Okoye to feature in Nigeria’s June friendlies against Poland and Portugal. Okonkwo then added further competition after receiving his first senior call-up and keeping clean sheets in Nigeria’s Unity Cup victories over Zimbabwe and Jamaica.

Chelle selected all three goalkeepers for the September AFCON qualifiers. Nwabali has now joined the squad in camp, while Okoye and Okonkwo remain part of the competition for the starting position.

The meaning behind Nwabali’s “keep crying” message remains unclear. The post could simply be a playful celebration of his return and a reminder of his penalty-saving heroics against Egypt. It could also be aimed at those who questioned whether he would return to the national team, but Nwabali has not identified a specific target.

What is clear is that Nwabali has regained his place in the Super Eagles after returning to regular club football. He now has another opportunity to compete for the starting role when Nigeria begin their Group L campaign against Madagascar in Uyo on September 25.

Nwabali Sends Cryptic “Keep Crying” Message After Super Eagles Recall

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