Head coach Eric Chelle has revealed his starting eleven for Nigeria's crucial Africa Cup of Nations semi-final clash against Morocco, making one enforced change to the lineup.
Onyedika Steps Into the Breach for Suspended Captain
The Super Eagles will face the host nation, the Atlas Lions of Morocco, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 9 pm. This high-stakes encounter marks the first meeting between the two football giants at the AFCON tournament in 22 years, since Morocco's group stage victory over Nigeria in the 2004 edition held in Tunisia.
Chelle has been forced into a single change from the side that defeated Algeria in the quarter-finals. The team's suspended captain, Wilfred Ndidi, will be replaced in midfield by Club Brugge star Raphael Onyedika. This alteration comes as Nigeria seeks to reach consecutive AFCON finals.
Osimhen Leads the Charge as Four Players Risk Suspension
In the absence of Ndidi, the armband will be worn by Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen. This will be the second time Osimhen captains the side during the ongoing tournament, adding extra responsibility to his role in leading the attack.
The lineup features several players walking a disciplinary tightrope. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and defender Calvin Bassey are among four Super Eagles stars who risk missing the final should they receive a yellow card against Morocco. Midfielder Frank Onyeka is also in this precarious position, while Moses Simon, another player at risk, will start the match from the bench.
The defensive unit in front of Nwabali will consist of Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, and Calvin Bassey. The midfield trio tasked with controlling the game will be Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, and the incoming Raphael Onyedika.
Historic Semi-Final Showdown in Rabat
Chelle has kept faith with his preferred attacking trio for this monumental match. Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams will support captain Victor Osimhen upfront, as Nigeria aims to replicate their 1980 semi-final success against Morocco. On that occasion, the then Green Eagles won 1-0 en route to claiming their first AFCON title on home soil.
The match promises to be a thrilling spectacle, pitting Nigeria's momentum against Morocco's home advantage. Nigerian fans can catch the action live on dedicated SuperSport channels on DStv. Other broadcasting platforms include Canal+ Afrique and SABC for viewers across the African continent.
All eyes will be on Rabat to see if Chelle's tactical setup, featuring the industrious Onyedika and the inspirational Osimhen as captain, can guide the Super Eagles past the host nation and into the final of AFCON 2025.
