Sinethemba Badela hails Chippa United star in Mamelodi Sundowns draw | OneFootball

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Badela heaps praise on Nwabali after Sundowns stalemate

Picture courtesy of Sowetan

Chippa United coach Sinethemba Badela has reserved a special praise for goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali for his strong showing and experience in their 1-1 draw against reigning Betway Premiership Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Chilli Boys held their own against the rampant Brazilians as newly signed Khaya Mfecane canceled out Arthur Sales’ first half opener for Sundowns, ensuring that the Gqeberha-based outfit leaves the capital with a point.

During the match, Nwabali appeared to have suffered a knock, prompting substitute goalkeeper Elson Sithole to warm up. However, the Nigerian shot-stopper insisted on seeing out the remainder of the match, much to the delight of his mentor.

Badela,35, heaped praise on the 29-year-old goalminder, highlighting how his presence in between the sticks helped the team to walk away with a crucial point against the Tshwane giants, who were expected to claim maximum points.

“Stanley Nwabali is an international player, he’s the club captain, he’s experienced. I thought his experience in the second half helped us a lot, especially to slow the game down, to pick the moments when we can play short,” said Badela.

“He also helped us in picking moments on when we can bypass the press and go over the press. I thought he did very well and he’s an important player for our team.

Nwabali has been subject to transfer speculation since his impressive display at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. He kept four clean sheets and conceded only four goals in the continental showpiece.

Saudi Arabian club Al Ettifaq and English Championship side Queens Park Rangers (QPR) enquired about the player’s services post AFCON. Furthermore, Kaizer Chiefs were also interested in signing the Chippa goalkeeper before acquiring Rwanda international Fiacre Ntwari.

Recently, Nwabali was linked with a move to Botola Pro League giants Raja Club Athletic, but a move never materialized as he looks set to continue plying his trade in the South African topflight under the guidance of Badela.