Chippa United head coach Brandon Truter believes Stanley Nwabali proved once again why he is one of Africa’s top goalkeepers after the Super Eagles star helped the club win the second Eastern Cape Pre-Season Tournament, Footynaija reports.
The Chilli Boys defeated Highbury FC 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Sunday’s final at Mthatha Stadium. Chippa led before the break, but Highbury equalised in the second half to send the match straight to penalties. Nwabali then produced a vital save, while his teammates converted their kicks to seal the trophy.
It was another impressive outing for the 29-year-old, who has enjoyed a strong return since rejoining Chippa United earlier this month. He kept a clean sheet in the 1-0 semifinal win over Ravens FC before playing a match-winning role in the final despite conceding once during normal time.
Speaking after the victory via the Herald, Truter admitted he was confident his goalkeeper would make the difference when the shootout began.
“With Stanley Nwabali in goal, one of Africa’s best, I knew he’d make a save to help us win,” the coach said.
Truter also praised his players for controlling most of the final and said the team’s performances throughout the tournament have created healthy competition ahead of the new Betway Premiership season. Chippa open their league campaign against Golden Arrows next weekend.
“This was a good tournament. I’m surprised by the guys’ output and the structure over which we had complete control.
“I mean, even the goal came from nowhere in a sense; we were focused on the substitution, they put the goal in the box, and we conceded from there.
“But other than that, the game was controlled; it was mature, the same as their early game as well. So it gives me a headache going into next week. I think everybody really performed and showed up in this tournament. It was a good tournament.”
Nwabali’s latest display is another boost for both club and country. After returning from a difficult five-month break following the loss of his parents and grandmother, the Nigeria international has quickly reclaimed his place as Chippa’s first-choice goalkeeper and appears ready for another big season.
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