Amidst the fervor of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Siviwe Mpengesi, chairman of Chippa United, ignited controversy by declaring unwavering support for the club’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, and the Nigeria Super Eagles.
In a comprehensive statement released via the club’s official social media account, Mpengesi initially commended the Premier Soccer League for its abundance of players at AFCON and hailed Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos for his emphasis on local talent.
However, Mpengesi’s allegiance then shifted towards Nwabali, Chippa United’s first-choice goalkeeper, and the Nigerian national team, due to the player’s standout performances at the tournament.
“As the Chairman of Chippa United FC and as a proud South African, I find myself in a unique position during this 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,” Mpengesi expressed.
“With Stanley’s rising profile and the international attention it brings to 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 against South Africa,’’ he affirmed.
Mpengesi’s endorsement of Nwabali and the Nigerian team triggered a wave of criticism on social media, with South African fans expressing disappointment and interpreting the chairman’s statement as a betrayal of national loyalty.
Many viewed Mpengesi’s stance as inappropriate, particularly with Bafana Bafana aiming for a strong showing in the AFCON tournament.
