The Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, has been hit with a significant setback just days before their crucial Africa Cup of Nations semifinal clash. Captain Wilfred Ndidi will miss the match against Morocco on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, due to a combination of suspension and injury.
How Ndidi's Absence Unfolded
The situation arose during Nigeria's commanding 2-0 quarterfinal victory over Algeria on Saturday, January 10, in Marrakesh. The Besiktas midfielder received a yellow card in the 67th minute for time-wasting. This was his second booking of the tournament, having been previously cautioned in the 4-0 Round of 16 win over Mozambique, triggering an automatic one-match suspension.
Compounding the issue, Ndidi sustained a hamstring injury following a challenge just outside Nigeria's penalty area shortly after the booking. He was subsequently substituted in the 69th minute, with Club Brugge's Raphael Onyedika taking his place on the pitch.
Super Eagles' Form and the Challenge Ahead
Despite this setback, the Super Eagles enter the semifinal in formidable form. Their win over Algeria made them the first team at AFCON 2025 to secure five consecutive victories. Eric Chelle's side has been the tournament's most potent attacking force, netting 14 goals in five matches and boasting a +10 goal difference, the best record in the competition.
The team's quarterfinal performance was dominant, with Algeria failing to register a single shot on target. Goals from star forwards Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed the impressive win.
Expert Opinion on the Replacement
Nigerian sports journalist Kingsley Oyero, speaking exclusively, acknowledged the loss of Ndidi's leadership but sees a ready-made solution. "The suspension of Wilfred Ndidi has opened the doors for Raphael Onyedika to cement his place," Oyero stated. He added, "No doubt Ndidi is a fantastic player and a leader of the team, this is an opportunity to prepare for the future."
Other players who received yellow cards in the tense quarterfinal include Paris FC winger Moses Simon and Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, both of whom remain available for the semifinal.
The stage is now set for a high-stakes encounter in Marrakesh, where Nigeria will have to overcome the absence of their midfield general to book a place in the AFCON 2025 final.
