Nwabali Wins Man Of The Match Award On Chippa United Return
A six save performance, including a crucial double stop, earned the goalkeeper the highest rating on the pitch as Chippa United held Golden Arrows to a goalless draw.
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Nigeria international Stanley Nwabali won the Man of the Match award in Chippa United’s 2026/27 Premier Soccer League opening fixture against Golden Arrows, which finished 0-0 on Saturday, marking his first competitive appearance in eight months.
Nwabali stood firm between Golden Arrows and the three points throughout the match, despite the Durban side enjoying the majority of possession and the most shots on goal. According to Fotmob, he finished the game with a 9.1 rating, the highest of any player on the pitch, after making six saves, three high claims, three clearances, and 12 ball recoveries. His most decisive moment came in the 60th minute, when he produced a double save to deny Ronaldo Van Neel.
Nwabali had left Chippa United after Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign in Morocco, with both parties mutually agreeing to terminate his contract. He returned to the club last month following a difficult personal period, during which he spoke publicly about struggling with his mental health after the deaths of his parents.
Chippa United, who finished four points above the relegation zone last season, will look to build on their opening day point when they host Richards Bay on August 11. Nwabali missed out on the Super Eagles squad that featured in the Unity Cup and the double header friendlies against Poland and Portugal in May and June, but could return to contention for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers in September if he continues performing well for his club.
Match & Career Facts
- Stanley Nwabali recorded a 9.1 match rating according to Fotmob, the highest of any player on the pitch.
- He made six saves, including a crucial double stop to deny Ronaldo Van Neel in the 60th minute.
- This was his first competitive appearance in eight months.
- He and Chippa United mutually agreed to terminate his previous contract after Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign.
- Chippa United finished four points above the relegation zone in the PSL last season.
- Nwabali’s next chance to feature for the Super Eagles is expected around the 2027 AFCON qualifiers in September.
- Chippa United’s next match is at home to Richards Bay on August 11.
