“Nwabali far better than Uzoho” — Gernot Rohr

Following the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire, former Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr has picked his choice on who he believes is the better goalkeeper between Francis Uzoho and Stanley Nwabali.

This comes after Uzoho, Nigeria’s number 1 goalkeeper, was unexpectedly replaced by Nwabali on the eve of the 2023 AFCON by coach Jose Peseiro.

Nwabali, 27, has since taken on the role of goalkeeper for Nigeria in all three group matches against Equatorial Guinea, Cote d’Ivoire, and Guinea-Bissau.

Demonstrating his prowess, Nwabali conceded only one goal and maintained two clean sheets, while Uzoho has yet to make an appearance in the tournament.

In an exclusive conversation with Osasu Obayiuwana, Rohr expressed his preference for Nwabali over Uzoho, citing the South Africa-based goalkeeper’s calm demeanor and exceptional control of his area.

“I have to say that Nwabali Bobo is better than Francis Uzoho,” Rohr said.

“He is calm and has very good control of his area.”

It is fair that the former Super Eagles boss will consider Stanley Nwabali as the better goalkeeper, however recent games have shown the Nigerian national team are a lot more composed in defense, with the tactics in their AFCON fixtures taking a more laid back approach towards their opponents.

There is also the possibility that Nwabali’s performances are just early days, with the Nigerian international being extra focused in sealing his spot in the team.