The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been dealt a significant double blow just hours before their crucial Africa Cup of Nations semifinal against Morocco. Captain Wilfred Ndidi and defender Ryan Alebiosu have both been ruled out of Wednesday's high-stakes encounter in Rabat, casting a shadow over Nigeria's quest for a fourth continental title.
Ndidi Sidelined by Suspension Despite Injury Recovery
Midfield anchor and team leader Wilfred Ndidi will be a forced absentee against the Atlas Lions. The setback is not due to the hamstring strain he picked up in the previous round, from which he is recovering positively, but rather due to an accumulation of yellow cards. Ndidi trained separately from the main squad during Tuesday's final session, limited to light individual exercises.
His absence represents a major tactical headache for head coach Eric Chelle. Ndidi has been instrumental in Nigeria's dominant run at AFCON 2025, controlling the midfield tempo and providing crucial defensive cover. His leadership on the pitch will also be sorely missed in a hostile away environment. Reports suggest Raphael Onyedika is now the favorite to start in the heart of midfield for the semifinal clash on Wednesday, January 14.
Alebiosu's Fitness Managed Cautiously
Adding to the defensive concerns, Ryan Alebiosu will also miss the match as the Nigerian medical team adopts a cautious approach to his rehabilitation. The defender trained away from his teammates, following a carefully structured program to ensure his long-term fitness is not jeopardized.
With the team having played five high-intensity matches in a short period, the technical crew is prioritizing a full recovery for Alebiosu over risking him in the semifinal. This decision underscores the physical demands of the tournament but leaves Nigeria with fewer options at the back against a potent Moroccan attack.
Unbeaten Super Eagles Remain Confident
Despite these key absences, the Nigerian camp is approaching the match with notable confidence. Their record at AFCON 2025 is formidable: they are the only semi-finalists to have won all five of their matches. They finished top of Group C with a perfect record, thrashed Mozambique 4-0 in the round of 16, and defeated Algeria 2-0 in the quarter-finals.
Statistically, Nigeria has been the tournament's standout team, boasting the best attacking record with 14 goals scored and none conceded so far. Their historical pedigree is also impressive, having reached the semifinals in 17 of the last 20 AFCON tournaments they have qualified for.
The winner of this semifinal at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium will advance to face either Senegal or Egypt in Sunday's final. In a related development, renowned manager Jose Mourinho has reportedly given his prediction for the outcome of this titanic clash between the Super Eagles and the host nation, Morocco.
