Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been named among the final five contenders for the 2024 CAF Goalkeeper of the Year award.
The Chippa United shot-stopper earned a place on the prestigious shortlist unveiled by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Monday, following a series of remarkable performances over the past year.
Nwabali shares this honor with an elite group of goalkeepers on the continent, including Cameroon’s André Onana (Manchester United), Côte d’Ivoire’s Yahia Fofana (Angers SCO), Egypt’s Mostafa Shobeir (Al Ahly), and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns).
His inclusion is a testament to his stellar displays during Nigeria’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in Côte d’Ivoire, where he played a pivotal role in leading the Super Eagles to the final. Nwabali conceded just two goals throughout the tournament, showcasing his exceptional reflexes and composure under pressure.
Despite Nigeria’s narrow 2-1 loss to the hosts in the final, his performances earned widespread praise and solidified his reputation as one of Africa’s top goalkeepers.
Nwabali’s achievements complement those of his Super Eagles teammate Ademola Lookman, who was also shortlisted for the CAF African Player of the Year award.
The competition for the Goalkeeper of the Year award is fierce, with seasoned contenders like Onana, who has been a key figure for Manchester United in domestic and European competitions, and Ronwen Williams, who was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament at the 2023 AFCON after guiding South Africa to an impressive finish.
Nwabali’s journey to this point is a proud moment for Nigerian football, as he continues to shine on the continental stage.
