SA top-flight club Chippa United chairman Chippa Mpengesi said he will be supporting Nigeria when they face Bafana Bafana in the 2023 Afcon semifinal clash tonight.

Chippa United chairman, Siviwe “Chippa” Mpengesi, has announced his support for goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, in their upcoming match against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) semi-final. The match will take place at the Stade Bouaké in Ivory Coast.

Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United in Gqeberha, has been a standout performer in the Afcon tournament. His impressive performances have played a crucial role in Nigeria reaching the semi-finals.

Nwabali is currently in contention for the golden glove award alongside Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, with both keepers having kept four clean sheets each.

In a surprising statement, Mpengesi expressed his support for the Super Eagles and Nwabali. As the chairman of Chippa United and a proud South African, Mpengesi acknowledged Nwabali’s exceptional performances and international recognition. He highlighted the positive impact Nwabali’s success has brought to both the player and the club.

Mpengesi stated that he and Chippa United fully stand behind Nwabali and the Nigerian Super Eagles in their match against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana. He wished the Super Eagles success in the upcoming game.

Furthermore, Mpengesi praised the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, for organizing what he described as the best and most thrilling Afcon tournament to date.