AFCON 2025: Nigeria captain Wilfred Ndidi to miss crucial clash against Morocco

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle will have more to do as the Super Eagles face Morocco without key midfielder and captain Wilfred Ndidi in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final.

The midfielder will miss the match due to an accumulation of yellow cards received in the knockout stages, a blow to Nigeria's quest for a second consecutive AFCON final appearance.

Expressing his disappointment, Coach Chelle acknowledged the void left by his skipper. "I’m disappointed for him because he brings so much for the team," Chelle stated in a pre-match press conference.

However, the manager struck a confident note about his squad's ability to adapt, emphasising the collective strength and opportunity for other players to step up. "We are a group; there are some very good players who are waiting for a chance to show something that they can bring us," Chelle said. "I’m very confident about that [dealing with Ndidi’s absence]…and everything will be fine."

The tactical challenge for Nigeria is substantial as they face an unbeaten Moroccan side buoyed by home support. Ndidi's absence in midfield, where his defensive prowess and leadership are vital, forces a reshuffle just one step from the final.

The winner of this high-stakes semi-final, which takes place on Wednesday, January 14 will advance to face the victor of the Senegal versus Egypt match in the tournament final on Sunday, January 18.