AFCON 2025: Captain Ndidi to miss Nigeria’s semi-final clash against Morocco

 

Super Eagles captain and midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has been ruled out of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations semi-final match against Morocco due to suspension.

Ndidi accumulated two yellow cards during the knockout stages, triggering an automatic one-match ban.

The suspension stems from bookings received in Nigeria’s round-of-16 victory over Mozambique and the quarter-final win against Algeria on Saturday.

During the Algeria match, Ndidi was cautioned in the 67th minute for time-wasting.

He was later substituted in the 69th minute after sustaining a hamstring injury from a challenge outside the penalty area.

While the injury’s severity remains unclear, the yellow card accumulation ensures his absence regardless

The Besiktas player has been key in Nigeria’s midfield, providing defensive stability and leadership throughout the tournament.

His absence leaves a void, and coach Eric Chelle may adopt Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika as his replacement.

Everton’s Frank Onyeka and Fulham’s Calvin Bassey were also on the brink of suspension but avoided further bookings in the quarter-final.

The semi-final clash against Morocco’s Atlas Lions is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, with Nigeria aiming to advance to the final.

Under AFCON rules, all yellow cards are reset after the semi-finals, meaning Ndidi, and any other cautioned players, would be eligible for the final should the Super Eagles progress.