Stanley Nwabali has been left out of Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup tournament in London, as well as the friendly matches against Poland and Portugal later this month.
The Super Eagles first-choice goalkeeper has not played competitive football since leaving Chippa United in February and has been without a club since then.
Nwabali led the Super Eagles to bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, where he saved two spot-kicks in the penalty shootout win over Egypt in the bronze medal match.
Meanwhile, Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has been handed a maiden call-up after switching allegiances from England last month.
Nigeria will participate in the Unity Cup once again, alongside Zimbabwe, India and Jamaica in a four-nation tournament to take place in London next week.
The three-time African champions will face Zimbabwe in their opening encounter on May 26, and will then go up against either India or Jamaica in the final if they win their first match.
Then, Eric Chelle’s side will go on to face Poland and Portugal in internationals friendly matches in June ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which they will not be taking part after missing out on qualification.
The Franco-Malian coach released two separated lists and handed call-ups to several players for the first time, while many others earned a recall after missing out on the 2025 AFCON tournament.
Seven players from the NPFL were handed call-ups, including Shooting Stars playmaker Ayobami Junior, while Sweden-based talent Zadok Yohanna also earned an invitation.
Millwall winger Femi Azeez, Plymouth Argyle’s Owen Oseni and Pisa’s Rafiu Durosinmi were also invited to represent the national team.
Meanwhile, Nigeria will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in September and will face Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and co-host Tanzania in group L.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
