South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL) side Chippa United have drummed their support for Stanley Nwabali, the Super Eagles’ goalkeeper, who is also the club’s first-team goalkeeper, hours before Nigeria clashes with Bafana Bafana in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semifinal fixture at the Stade de la Paix, Bouaké, 6pm WAT.
The support came in a letter signed by the club chairman, Siviwe Chippa Mpengesi, and posted on the club’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Wednesday, February 7.
“As the Chairman of Chippa United FC and as a proud South African, I find myself in a unique position during this 2023 AFCON tournament in that our very own Nigeria international Stanley Nwabali has been a revelation; his performance for the Nigerian National Team has caught the eyes of the globe, earning him and our club international acclaim,” the statement reads.
“With Stanley’s rising profile and the international attention it brings to Chippa United FC, the benefits have been nothing but positive. Therefore, I and Chippa United FC stand behind our player Stanley Nwabali and the Nigerian Super Eagles tomorrow against South Africa Bafana Bafana. We wish the Super Eagles all the best.”
The controversial statement has caused commotion among South Africa’s supporters, some of whom have claimed Mpengesi was unpatriotic. However, Chippa United’s chairman lauded the Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, for making the squad majorly comprised of players from the PSL and Mamelodi Sundowns.
“Acknowledgement is also given to Coach Hugo Broos, who boldly trusted our domestic players, unlike previous Bafana Bafana national team coaches who preferred to select players who played abroad as bench warmers instead, to represent our National Team,” the statement continued.
“My commendation also goes out to Mamelodi Sundowns FC and their technical staff for their outstanding contribution, highlighted by the inclusion of 8 players in the Bafana Bafana starting lineup.”
Mpengesi also praised former PSL chairman and current CAF president Patrice Motsepe for the outcome of the AFCON so far. The tournament has been lauded from different quarters for its organisation and professionalism, especially that shown by the referees.
“Furthermore, my heartfelt applause is due to the CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe for orchestrating what is arguably the finest AFCON tournament of the century, showcasing the continent’s football prowess and uniting us in the spirit of the game. It’s a moment of pride and reflection on our journey and growth in African football,” the Chppa United chairman concluded.
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