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				Chippa United’s head coach, Thabo September, has  for the team’s 1-0 defeat against TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership, [attributing](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/merchandising-and-branding/) the loss to his decision to [play goalkeeper](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/football-history/rashidi-yekini-hero-who-fired-nigeria-to-first-world-cup/) Stanley Nwabali.[bet9ja.com](https://register.bet9ja.com/?btag=yohaig&promocode=yohaig) The Nigerian shot-stopper, who recently lost both his parents, had requested to sit out the match due to emotional distress. | 
			
		
		
	
		
			
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				Despite Nwabali’s plea, September insisted on fielding him, a decision the coach now regrets after the goalkeeper’s mistake led to the decisive goal.[bit.ly](https://bit.ly/AviatorGameOnlineBET9JA) September reflected on the situation, admitting that listening to Nwabali’s concerns might have changed the outcome. | 
			
		
		
	
		
			
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				"It’s football, and sometimes you must learn from moments like these," September stated. He commended the team’s overall performance, highlighting their commitment and 120% effort on the pitch. Despite Nwabali’s blunder, the coach acknowledged his solid performance during key moments, particularly in making crucial saves late in the game. | 
			
		
		
	
		
			
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				Chippa United will now shift focus to their next fixture in the [Nedbank Cup](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/local-clubs-and-academies/mubaraq-last-minute-goal-seals-gateway-win-over-first-bank/) Last 16, where they face Kaizer Chiefs at the FNB Stadium. | 
			
		
		
	
		
			
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				Editorial | 
			
		
		
	
		
			
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				In the world of football, human emotions often collide with professional expectations, creating moments of deep reflection. Thabo September’s decision to play Stanley [Nwabali](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/international-nigerian-footballers/chelsea-player-close-to-finalizing-permanent-move-to-strasbourg/) in Chippa United’s loss to TS Galaxy is a stark reminder of the importance of mental well being in competitive sports. While Nwabali’s physical fitness may have been sufficient, emotional readiness proved equally, if not more, crucial. | 
			
		
		
	
		
			
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				We believe the coach’s admission of fault marks a step forward in fostering conversations around mental health in sports. Too often, athletes are perceived as invincible, but personal grief, stress, or trauma can significantly impact performance. September’s statement signals a shift an acknowledgement that [decisions based](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/football-events-and-tournaments/) on empathy and understanding can be just as valuable as tactical choices. | 
			
		
		
	
		
			
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				Looking ahead, we urge clubs to implement mental health support structures to help players navigate personal crises. This isn’t about excusing mistakes |