Nigeria's Super Eagles have received a major boost ahead of their crucial Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash against hosts Morocco, with confirmation that first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is eligible to play. The Nigeria Football Federation has moved swiftly to quash misleading reports and allay fears surrounding the high-stakes encounter scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. WAT at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat.
Nwabali Available, Ndidi Served Suspension
Contrary to rumours circulating online, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has not been ruled out of the semifinal due to suspension. The NFF, through Super Eagles' Media Officer Promise Efoghe, clarified the situation to The Guardian. Efoghe explained that Nwabali has only one yellow card from the knockout stage, and cards received during the group phase are wiped clean for the knockout rounds. This means the goalkeeper is free to "defend Nigeria's honours" against the Atlas Lions.
However, the team will be without its captain, Wilfred Ndidi, who is suspended for the match. Ndidi received two yellow cards during the knockout phase of the competition. His place in the midfield is expected to be taken by Raphael Onyedika of Club Brugge.
NFF President Calms Fears Over Officiating
Amidst widespread concern among Nigerian fans about potential biased officiating in favour of the host nation, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau has expressed strong confidence in the match officials. Gusau, who also serves as the president of WAFU B, stated he does not share the fears that referees will work against Nigeria's interests.
"I believe that the grass is always green and that the playing pitch is level," Gusau said. He referenced Nigeria's positive experience in Morocco during the Women's Africa Cup of Nations final last summer, where the Super Falcons came from two goals behind to defeat the hosts. He emphasized that this is the highest level of African football, with CAF and the global audience watching, which he believes will ensure professional conduct from the officials.
Super Eagles Camp Radiates Confidence
The Nigerian squad remains focused and confident in Rabat. The players have adhered strictly to their professional schedule at the Hotel Rihab and the Complexe Sportif Mohamed VI training ground. The team's impressive form, having scored six goals and conceded none in knockout wins against Mozambique (4-0) and Algeria, fuels this self-belief.
Intelligence from the Moroccan camp suggests apprehension about the influence of Nigerian midfielder Alexander Iwobi. The 29-year-old playmaker has been instrumental, delivering 22 line-breaking passes against Mozambique and 14 against Algeria. He also provided assists for Nigeria's first two goals of the tournament in the 2-1 win over Tanzania. Tonight's match will mark his 96th cap for the national team since his debut in 2015.
With a place in the AFCON final at stake, the Super Eagles are poised to end the host nation's quest for a second title, 50 years after their first, relying on a available Nwabali, tactical adjustments, and unwavering confidence.
