Former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, has stressed that the Super Eagles need at least two top-quality goalkeepers to remain competitive, especially at major tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). While praising current first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, Ikpeba said strong competition is essential to maintain high standards in the team.
Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United in South Africa, has firmly established himself as Nigeria’s number one, featuring in 13 of the Super Eagles’ last 14 matches. He has also impressed at recent AFCON tournaments, keeping four consecutive clean sheets at the 2025 edition, similar to his performance at the 2023 tournament where Nigeria finished as runners-up.
However, Ikpeba noted that Nwabali’s position should not go unchallenged, pointing to the emergence of England-based Arthur Okonkwo, who has committed to representing Nigeria. Other goalkeepers such as Maduka Okoye, Francis Uzoho and Amas Obasogie have served as backups in recent years.
Speaking on SuperSport’s Monday Night Football, Ikpeba said competition among goalkeepers would push everyone to improve. He recalled past eras when Nigeria boasted strong options in goal, naming legends Emmanuel Okala and Best Ogedegbe as examples of healthy rivalry.
Ikpeba also highlighted Nigeria’s rich AFCON history, noting that the Super Eagles have won the tournament three times, reached the final five times and finished third on nine occasions. He said the record underlines Nigeria’s influence on the continent and the need to sustain that legacy with quality in all departments, including goalkeeping.
