RABAT, Morocco – In a decisive clarification ahead of tonight’s high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations semifinal, the Nigeria Football Federation has confirmed that goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is fully eligible to face host nation Morocco. The announcement dispels swirling online speculation regarding a potential suspension.
Super Eagles Media Officer, Promise Efoghe, stated definitively to press: “Stanley Nwabali carries just a single caution into this match. Cards from the group stage were reset for the knockout phase. He is focused, prepared, and will be guarding our goal tonight.”
The news provides a significant boost for the Nigerian camp, though they will be without midfield anchor Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended due to cautions received in the knockout rounds. His role is expected to be filled by the dynamic Raphael Onyedika of Club Brugge.
As anticipation builds for the 8:00 PM clash at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau has also moved to calm concerns over officiating impartiality. Addressing worries that the host nation might enjoy undue influence, Gusau expressed unwavering confidence in the match officials.
“I have full faith in the integrity of the appointments made by CAF,” Gusau remarked. “The pitch is level, and the eyes of the continent are upon this spectacle. Our experience here last summer in the women’s final, where we triumphed over Morocco, reaffirms that quality and determination are the deciding factors, not external influences.”
The Super Eagles, meticulously preparing at their base in Hotel Rihab and the Complexe Sportif Mohamed VI, are radiating a palpable sense of belief. The squad appears undaunted by the task of silencing a fervent home crowd and ending Morocco’s quest for a first AFCON title in five decades.
Central to Nigerian confidence is the influential form of midfielder Alexander Iwobi. The 29-year-old has been the creative engine of the team’s knockout stage dominance, delivering a masterclass in progression. His 22 line-breaking passes dismantled Mozambique in the round of 16, followed by 14 more in the quarterfinal victory over Algeria—a stage where Nigeria has scored six unanswered goals.
Iwobi, who also provided assists in the group stage, is set to earn his 96th cap tonight. His recent performances have reportedly become a focal point for Moroccan tactical concerns, as the Atlas Lions grapple with containing his vision and incisive passing.
