Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali, currently playing for Chippa United in South Africa, has earned a nomination for the prestigious CAF Goalkeeper of the Year award. His remarkable rise from the Nigerian Professional Football League to becoming Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper has captured attention across the continent.

Nwabali’s journey began in Nigeria, where he showcased his talent with clubs like Wikki Tourists, Enyimba, Lobi Stars, and Katsina United. His international debut came in 2021 during a friendly against Mexico, but it was during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast that he truly shone. Nwabali’s stellar performances, including four clean sheets in seven matches and a heroic penalty shootout display against South Africa in the semi-finals, solidified his status as a top goalkeeper.

His efforts helped Nigeria reach the final, earning him the Man of the Match award and this prestigious nomination.

However, Nwabali faces tough competition for the CAF Goalkeeper of the Year title. Among the nominees are Manchester United’s André Onana and Ronwen Williams from Mamelodi Sundowns. The list of contenders is packed with Africa’s finest shot-stoppers, reflecting the depth of talent across the continent.

Full List of CAF Best Goalkeeper of the Year Nominees:

Oussama Benbot (Algeria and USM Algiers)

André Onana (Cameroon and Manchester United)

Ronwen Williams (South Africa and Mamelodi Sundowns)

Djigui Diarra (Mali and Young Africans)

Mostafa Shobeir (Egypt and Al Ahly)

Amanallah Memmiche (Tunisia and ES Tunis)

Lionel Mpasi (DR Congo and Rodez AF)

Yahia Fofana (Côte d’Ivoire and Angers SCO)

Munir El Kajoui (Morocco and RS Berkane)


Stanley Nwabali’s impressive run with Chippa United and his key performances for Nigeria make him a strong contender in this field of elite goalkeepers, as he continues to build his legacy in African football.