Nigeria lose Ndidi as AFCON semi-final looms
Nigeria’s Super Eagles will face Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final on January 14 in Rabat without captain Wilfred Ndidi, while Bright Osayi-Samuel remains a major doubt, dealing a blow to the team’s preparations.
Ndidi is ruled out through suspension after collecting his second yellow card of the tournament in the 2–0 quarter-final win over Algeria. Osayi-Samuel picked up an injury late in that match and is racing against time to be fit. “Ndidi’s absence hurts, but we trust the players who will step in,” head coach Eric Chelle said.
Nigeria have built momentum with five straight wins at AFCON, conceding just one goal, and Chelle is expected to reshuffle his midfield, with Raphael Onyedika among the options. “Every player must be ready,” the coach added.From the Moroccan camp, confidence is high. “Playing at home gives us belief,” said a team official. Nigeria now face a stern test of depth and character as they chase a place in the final.