Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Greg Etafia has expressed confidence that Stanley Nwabali will regain his form before the World Cup Qualifiers next month. Nwabali, who has seen his performances dip following the tragic loss of his parents months ago, is receiving steady encouragement from Etafia, who remains in regular contact with the goalkeeper.
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“I tell him that there are some things he needs to let go of and try to focus on because football is his life, and for him to be where he is now is because of his passion for the game. Right now, he just needs to concentrate on getting himself back to where he belongs and trying to help Nigeria. It’s very difficult—if you’re not in his shoes, you can’t understand what he’s going through,” Etafia said.
He added, “But I speak to him here from time to time, trying to encourage him and let him know that he has to do what he has to do in terms of making himself happy, and football gives him that joy. He’s one of the best goalkeepers in the country. I just hope that before the qualifier against Rwanda and Zimbabwe—a must-win for Nigeria—he’ll be in the right state of mind and do Nigeria proud.”
Etafia’s words come as Nigeria prepares for the critical upcoming qualifiers, with renewed focus on rebuilding and maintaining the team’s competitive edge on the international stage.
