Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho has described his relationship with Stanley Nwabali as cordial and supportive.

Uzoho was a surprise inclusion in head coach Eric Chelle’s final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which was unveiled last week.

The 27-year-old’s selection marked his first call-up by the Malian tactician since his last appearance for the Super Eagles at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire.

Despite losing his starting position to the Chippa United goalkeeper during the 2023 tournament, Uzoho insisted there is no rivalry between them, describing Nwabali as a brother and stressing that they support each other.

“Stanley is my brother. When he came, we were all together,” Uzoho told Super Eagles media.

“We helped each other. I helped him, and he helped me. So Stanley is a good guy, and I have a very close relationship with him.

“Maybe people outside don’t see it, but personally, I’m good with him — and also with Amas [Obasogie].”

Nigeria will face the Pharaohs of Egypt in a pre-AFCON friendly on Tuesday, December 16, at the Cairo International Stadium.

WDN