AFCON 2023: Nwabali better than Uzoho, says Rohr

Gernot Rohr

Former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has said current first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is better than Francis Uzoho.

There were concerns over the Super Eagles goalkeeping department, before the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations due to Uzoho’s unimpressive displays.

Uzoho’s poor performances forced Jose Peseiro to scout for another first choice.

The Portuguese traveled to South Africa to check out Nwabali at Chippa United and eventually settled for him.

After three appearances in Côte d’Ivoire, Nwabali has kept two clean sheets and has conceded just one goal.

Speaking with former BBC reporter, Osasu Obayiuwana in Côte d’Ivoire on Wednesday, Rohr rated Nwabali better.

“I have to say that Nwabali is better than Francis Uzoho,” Rohr, who gave Uzoho his Super Eagles debut admitted.

On why he feels Nwabali is better, the German coach pointed out two reasons.

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

Nwabali will hope to continue his impressive performance as the Eagles face Cameroon in the round of 16 on Saturday.

The Indomitable Lions had to dig deep to overcome Gambia 3-2 in Tuesday’s final group game.

A Christopher Wooh’s goal deep in stoppage time earned the five-time AFCON winners a place in the round of 16.

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