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Chippa United supporting goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and Nigeria ahead of Afcon semi-final against Bafana Bafana

Bafana Bafana are set to face the Super Eagles in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final at Stade Bouake in Ivory Coast on Wednesday, February 7.&nbsp;Throughout the country, local clubs, players, and the football community are rallying behind Hugo Broos and his team as they aim to secure a spot in the final for the first time since 1996.&nbsp;However, Mpengesi, the boss of the Chilli Boys, has chosen a different stance, expressing his support for the club's goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and the entire Super Eagles squad.

WHAT HAPPENED?

“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,” <a href="https://x.com/chippaunitedfc/status/1755137654486626717?s=46&amp;t=E00zjtnPO15e9tLcuSmuaA" target="_blank">Mpengesi said.</a>&nbsp;“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.”

WHAT THE STATEMENT SAID?

Furthermore, Mpengesi honoured Caf President Patrice Motsepe, followed by his stance to back the Super Eagles.&nbsp;“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,” he added.“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.&nbsp;“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,” Mpengesi concluded.

AND WHAT MORE? 

Although Mpengesi's remarks may create some buzz before the semi-final, the South African team will remain completely focused on the upcoming challenge.&nbsp;They are set to take on Nigeria at Stade Bouake on Wednesday at 7 pm SA time.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Chippa United supporting goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and Nigeria ahead of Afcon semi-final against Bafana Bafana | Goal.com

Chippa United&apos;s Siviwe Mpengesi has caused a stir by supporting Nigeria over South Africa for the upcoming Afcon semi-final.