Nigeriaʼs head coach, Eric Chelle, has unveiled his provisional squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, featuring five goalkeepers, Footynaija.com reports.
Each of the goalkeepers brings unique skills and experiences to the table.
Hereʼs a closer look at these shot-stoppers, ranked based on their current form and market value.
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1. Stanley Nwabali
Stanley Nwabali has been a standout performer for Chippa United in South Africaʼs Premier Soccer League. He starred at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he kept four cleansheets, leading Nigeria all the way to the final.
Nwabaliʼs commanding presence and shot-stopping abilities have earned him comparisons to Nigerian goalkeeping legend Vincent Enyeama, as per Pulse Sports.
He has 6 cleansheets in 18 appearances this season, and his market value stands at a career-high of €600K, reflecting his rising stock in African football.
2. Maduka Okoye
Maduka Okoye, currently with Udinese in Italyʼs Serie A, has also seen his market value rise despite missing the 2023 AFCON. The 25-year-old is currently valued at €7.50 million.
Okoye has 3 cleansheets in 14 appearances this season. His experience in European football and previous stints with the national team make him a strong contender for the starting spot.
3. Adebayo Adeleye
Adebayo Adeleye, playing for En Paralimni, has been a consistent performer in the Cypriot First Division. The 24-year-old has 6 cleansheets in 23 appearances this season.
His experience in European football adds depth to Nigeriaʼs goalkeeping options.
4. Kayode Bankole
Kayode Bankole, representing Remo Stars in the NPFL, has also impressed with 3 clean sheets in seven appearances.
He has been a key player for Remo Stars this season, helping them stay solid at the back, maintaining a well-deserved lead on top of the table.
Bankoleʼs inclusion in the provisional list is only a reflection of his potential to contribute to the Super Eagles’ success.
5. Amas Obasogie
Amas Obasogie has been a standout performer in the Tanzanian Premier League. The Singida Black Stars Sports Club goalkeeper has kept 3 clean sheets in 11 appearances this season, proving to be a reliable presence between the posts.
His performances have been crucial to Singida Black Starsʼ campaign. And while he is yet to be truly tested on the big stage, his shot-stopping ability makes him a strong option.
Eric Chelle faces a challenging decision ahead of Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers. Stanley Nwabali is the clear favourite, given his form at AFCON. However, Maduka Okoye’s European experience keeps him in the conversation, and Amas Obasogieʼs form also makes him a serious contender.
Kayode Bankole and Adebayo Adeleye offer solid backup options, but they may struggle to displace the top three.
