Huge Blow: Nigeria defender Benjamin Fredrick ruled out of 2025 AFCON with knee injury

Nigeria’s hopes ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have suffered a major setback with versatile defender Benjamin Fredrick ruled out of the tournament following a knee injury sustained in training at Belgian club FC Dender.

According to reports from sources, the 20-year-old Brentford loanee who has impressed in the final round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers is expected to be sidelined for eight to twelve weeks. The injury timeline makes him unavailable for next month’s AFCON in Morocco.

Journalist Shina Okeleji first revealed the extent of the setback, confirming that Fredrick’s recovery period will stretch well beyond the start of the continental competition.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is already working on securing a replacement for the young defender, whose recent performances have earned widespread praise.

Fredrick, a former Nigerian youth international, made his senior debut during the Unity Cup in London and went on to feature consistently in the World Cup qualifiers, including last week’s loss to DR Congo in Rabat.

His absence adds to Nigeria’s growing injury concerns, with key players Victor Osimhen and Ola Aina also sidelined in recent weeks.