WeeklySA_AdminKNOCKOUT: With Number One goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali announcing his departure this week, Chippa United’s replacement goalkeeper rises to the occasion against Durban City, only for Chilli Boys to succumb to a penalty loss…
By Lehlohonolo Lehana
Durban City had to dig deep for a win over Chippa United on penalties following a draw in regulation time in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 match at the Chatsworth Stadium on Friday night.
Chippa United’s substitute goalkeeper Dumisani Msibi – as if to prove a point – stepped in the fray with a meticulous performance, pulled off some fine saves to deny City’s sharpshooters several goal-scoring opportunities. The 30-year-old ensured that the game ended in a 0-0 draw in regulation time, only for the Port Elizabeth-based club to lose on penalties.
City became the fourth team to progress to the round of 16 after Stellenbosch FC, Mamelodi Sundowns and Vasco Da Gama.
With nothing to differentiate the teams in both regulation and extra time, the game had to be decided by penalties, and the Citizens claimed a 3-2 win to advance.
City’s best chance in the first half fell for an unmarked Terrence Mashego from close. However, the Mamelodi Sundowns loanee’s header was superbly saved by keeper Dumisani Msibi, and the score was 0-0 during the half-time break, thanks to some brilliant goalkeeping.
The second half saw City create the better chances, but Msibi made some fine saves to deny Letsie Koapeng, Sphiwe Mahlangu, and Saziso Magawana. The 30-year-old ensured that the game ended in a 0-0 draw in regulation time, and extra time followed.
In another Nedbank Cup fixture this evening, Vasco Da Gama made it to the Round of 16 following their 4-1 win against Luthuli Brigades at the Athlone Stadium.
Nwabali’s emotional message
Meanwhile, departing Chippa United’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, bidding farewell to Chippa United after the South African club granted his request to leave, penned an emotional message to his former club, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Nwabali, who joined Chippa United from Katsina United in 2022, penned the farewell message across his social media pages.
“It was more than a family. To my lovely teammates, dear coaches, amazing fans and best chairman in the world. As I stand here to say farewell, but more than a goodbye, I want to say thank you,” Nwabali wrote.
“The memories we’ve shared, the hard-fought victories, the setbacks we turned into lessons, the laughs and the tears are moments I will carry with me forever.
“I leave with a heart full of gratitude and a lifetime of cherished memories. This isn’t just a farewell, it’s an appreciation for every moment you’ve given me.
“To the club chairman, thank you for being such a father figure to me. Thank you for the honour of letting me be part of this story. I wish you all success and happiness in the seasons ahead.”
In a statement shared on its official X, the Port Elizabeth-based side confirmed the 28-year-old shot-stopper submitted a request to depart the club.
“Chippa United Football Club confirms that Stanley Nwabali has formally submitted a request to depart the club. After careful consideration, the club has agreed to grant his release,” the statement read. “We would like to sincerely thank Stanley Nwabali for the years of service, commitment, and professionalism he has shown during his time at Chippa United Football Club. His contribution to the club will always be appreciated,” the club added.
Nwabali rose to prominence after his impressive performances for Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, where the Super Eagles finished as runners-up. His next destination is yet to be officially announced, but multiple reports suggest the goalkeeper is expected to join Moroccan top-flight side Raja Club Athletic.
Chippa United are 14th in the PSL, one point above the relegation places. – Fullview/additional reporting by PUNCH
