With much on the line with what has been categorized as one of the biggest games of AFCON 2023 Nigeria vs South Africa, the president of the South African club Chippa United, Siviwe Mpengesi, the home to the Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has revealed the country his club will be supporting in this semi-finals showdown.
Siviwe Mpengesi in a lengthy public statement confirmed that although it is a tough choice and decision to make, his club Chippa United will be throwing their weight behind Stanley Nwabali and his home country Nigeria ahead of the semi-final fixture against South Africa.
The public statement read, “I would like to start by extending my congratulations to the Premier Soccer League (PSL) for showcasing the highest number of domestic players at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Close to 30 players from South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, Ghana, Nigeria and even the host country, Ivory Coast, who play in the PSL were part of the Afcon 2023 tournament, all thanks to the PSL Chairman Dr Irvin Khoza.”
He went on to add, “Acknowledgement is also given to coach Hugo Broos, who boldly trusted our domestic players, unlike previous Bafana Bafana national team coaches who preferred to select players who played abroad as benchwarmers instead, to represent our national team. My commendation also goes out to Mamelodi Sundowns FC and their technical staff for their outstanding contribution, highlighted by the inclusion of eight players in the Bafana Bafana starting lineup. Furthermore, my heartfelt applause is due to the Caf President Dr Patrice Motsepe for orchestrating what is arguably the finest Afcon tournament of the century, showcasing the continent’s football prowess and uniting us in the spirit of the game. It’s a moment of pride and reflection on our journey and growth in African football.”
Siviwe Mpengesi cleared the air on the motivation behind this decision, “As the Chairman of Chippa United FC and as a proud South African, I find myself in a unique position during the 2023 Afcon tournament in that our very own Nigeria international Stanley Nwabali has been a revelation, his performance for the Nigerian national team has caught the eyes of the globe, earning him and our club international acclaim. With Stanley’s rising profile and the international attention it brings Chippa United FC, the benefits have been nothing but positive. Therefore, I and Chippa United FC stand behind our player Stanley Nwabali and the Nigerian Super Eagles tomorrow (Wednesday) against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana. We wish the Super Eagles all the best.”
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