‘Competition makes everyone better’ - Victor Ikpeba calls for strong Goalkeeping in Super Eagles

Former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, has emphasised the importance of having at least two top-tier goalkeepers in the Super Eagles, insisting that competition for the number-one spot is essential for sustained success.

While praising Stanley Nwabali’s performances, Ikpeba noted that no position in the national team should be immune from competition.

Nwabali, who plays his club football with Chippa United in South Africa, has firmly established himself as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, starting 13 of the Super Eagles’ last 14 matches.

The shot-stopper was particularly impressive at the Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria finished as the second runner-up.

The goalkeeping department could soon see increased competition following England-based Arthur Okonkwo's decision to commit his international future to Nigeria, his father’s homeland.

In recent years, backup roles have been filled by Maduka Okoye of Udinese, Francis Uzoho of Omonia Nicosia, and Amas Obasogie of Singida Black Stars, but Ikpeba believed the team needs genuine rivalry at the top.

Speaking on SuperSport’s Monday Night Football, Ikpeba stressed that internal competition is vital for maintaining high standards.

“What the team needs is a little bit of competition, which will make everyone work harder,” he said.

Ikpeba drew comparisons with an earlier generation of Nigerian football, when strength in depth was a defining feature of the squad.

“When it comes to Nwabali, the Super Eagles team needs two really good goalkeepers. In the past, I remember we had Emmanuel Okala and Best Ogedegbe,” he recalled.