Nigeria have been handed a significant setback ahead of their highly anticipated semi-final clash against Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with captain Wilfred Ndidi ruled out through suspension.
The Super Eagles midfielder will miss the crucial encounter after accumulating two yellow cards in the tournament. Ndidi was first booked during Nigeria’s round of 16 victory over Zimbabwe before receiving a second caution in the 69th minute of the quarter-final win against Algeria, a booking that automatically triggered a one-match suspension.
Ndidi’s absence represents a major loss for Nigeria, given his importance to the team’s structure and balance. As captain and midfield anchor, he has been central to the Super Eagles’ success, offering defensive solidity, intelligent ball recovery and the ability to initiate attacks from deep. His physical presence and tactical awareness have made him one of Nigeria’s most reliable performers throughout the competition.
The suspension presents a difficult challenge for head coach Eric Chelle, who must now reshuffle his midfield against an in-form Moroccan side. Morocco booked their place in the semi-finals after eliminating Cameroon in the quarter-finals and have been one of the most impressive teams of the tournament under the guidance of Walid Regragui.
Following Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Algeria to secure a semi-final spot, attention has quickly turned to how the Super Eagles will cope without their midfield leader.
Chelle is expected to consider alternatives such as Alex Iwobi or John Ibuka as he looks to plug the gap left by Ndidi and maintain the team’s competitiveness.
With a place in the final at stake, Nigeria will need a collective effort to overcome the absence of their captain against a Moroccan side brimming with confidence and momentum.
The crucial semi-final contest is scheduled to be played on Wednesday, January 14.
