• Goalkeeper predicts win for Nigeria today

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has doused the fears that Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali might not feature in today’s 2026 FIFA World Cup cracker against South Africa in Bloemfontein.

An online newspaper had claiming the Chippa United goaltender has already copped two yellow cards going for the match.

However, it has been confirmed that the Nigeria’s first choice is eligible to play as he has only got on the books once in the World Cup qualifiers while his other yellow card was in the AFCON qualifiers.

NFF Media Director, Ademola Olajire told Daily Sunsports point blank that there is nothing like two yellow cards, stressing that Nwabali is eligible to play the match.

Reacting to our query, Olajire said, “don’t mind them. Nothing like that. The rumour started from South Africa here.”

Nwabali’s nonchalant attitude in the slim 1-0 win over Rwanda on Friday in Uyo got Nigerians worried. He barely escaped being booked in the game with his unprofessional behavior throughout the game.

According to Daily Sunsports’ findings, Nwabali got one Yellow card in the AFCON qualifiers last year while his only caution in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers was last Friday against Rwanda.

Meanwhile, Nwabali has expressed confidence that Nigeria will defeat South Africa in the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match today.

Speaking ahead of the game, Nwabali highlighted the squad’s strength and readiness.

“I feel like we have a very strong squad to match any country. I don’t see like a really big thing to us, but I know we respect them,” the Super Eagles goalkeeper said.

“They are doing well, even top in the group, but I feel like even though it’s going to be a tough game tomorrow, we’re going to come out strong. Every game has its own plan.”

Nwabali emphasised that facing South Africa requires a unique approach compared to other teams in the group.

“You see, you might be watching them against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and some other teams. But when it comes to Nigeria, it’s a different approach.

“Likewise, other countries coming to play against Nigeria approach it differently.”

Despite the challenge, Nwabali remained optimistic about the outcome.

“It’s going to be a tough game tomorrow, but I really feel that we’re going to win that game. I feel like we’re going to win that game.”